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Ladakh in September

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How to reach Ladakh in September?

Manali leh highway in september.

The length of the Manali Leh Highway is approximately 430 kilometers, and it will take you around 14 hours to reach there. The trip starts from Manali traveling up to Rohtang La, and then you will take a downward slope through Kokhsar and Tandi. Moving further, you will cross Jispa, Kelong, Deepak Tal , and Darch.  you will now reach Patsy.Take a rest here, and then take the route from Patseu to Debring, dodging mountain sickness and taking short breaks from time to time. Finally, you will move towards Tanglang La, Rumste, Upshi, and Karu to reach your final destination, Leh. You Can Also Book:  Leh Ladakh Package For Couple

Srinagar Leh Highway in September

The distance between Srinagar and Leh is around 434 kilometers. After commencing your journey from Srinagar, you need to ride 85 kilometers to Sonamarg and 62 kilometers to move towards Drass through Zoji La Pass. You can either take a rest here or continue your trip for 58 kilometers to reach Kargil . From here, there are two routes; you can either travel for around 235 kilometers to Leh through Mulbek, Namika La, Fotu La, Hangaroo Loops, and Nimmu, or you can drive for about 53 kilometers and reach Batalik and then proceed towards Leh via Dah, provided you have an Inner Line Permit. Also Read:  Manali to Leh Ladakh Highway Guide

Leh Ladakh Trip in September by Flight

Leh Ladakh is very well-connected to the other parts of the country by flight. Around eight flights operate between Delhi and Leh every day, so you can also take the flight from the fundamental cities of the country, like Mumbai, Srinagar, Chandigarh, and Jammu. Some of the popular airlines that operate on this route are IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, GoFirst, and Vistara. It will take you around one and half hours to reach Leh from Delhi, and the average cost of the one-way flight on this route is approximately Rs. 8000. You can book your flight to the Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh and start your travel itinerary. Click Here To Book:  Manali Leh Srinagar Bike Trip

Essential info about Ladakh in September

Weather & temperature.

Things to carry

As the climate in Leh Ladakh in September is cold, you must carry woolen clothes, including thermals, cotton T-shirts, waterproof jackets, and light woolen.

You must also carry two pairs of waterproof gloves along with sunglasses and sunscreen lotion to protect your skin from the harsh ultraviolet rays of the sun.

Don’t forget to keep all the necessary documents like Passport, Aadhar Card, Driving License, or Voter ID. 

To have a safe trip, you must also put some toiletries in a ziplock bag; eateries like dry fruits, glucose, and energy bars to curb hunger; and packed mineral water. You Can Visit & Book:  Manali To Leh Cycling Tour

Travel Tips for Leh Ladakh in September

If you are traveling for the first time to Leh Ladakh in September, you must keep all the essentials like warm clothes and a medical kit in check. 

It is advisable to explore Leh Ladakh in a slow and steady manner so that you don’t get difficulty adjusting to the low atmospheric pressure. Hence, it is essential to acclimate your body.

Be careful while riding a car or bike on the roads of Ladakh in September as they are prone to landslides due to rainfall or snow.

Carry all the licenses and permits before traveling to any army area in Leh Ladakh. Also Checkout:  Manali to Leh Ladakh Road Trip Packages

Snow in Ladakh in September

September is the time when you can enjoy remarkable landscape views of Ladakh with less crowd. If you travel close to high altitude passes like Khardung La and chang la , you may experience snowfall in the middle of September. During this month, Ladakh experiences the winter season, and you can feel the cold right from your entrance to the Ladakh region. The sunlight during the daytime is strong, and the weather is relatively pleasant with temperatures ranging between 20 to 22 degrees celsius, while the temperature falls down to 6 degrees celsius at night. So, if you want to enjoy snowfall in the mountainous region, you should visit Leh Ladakh. You Can Also Book:  Leh Ladakh Tour Packages From Mumbai                                     Leh Ladakh Tour Packages From Bangalore

Inner Line Permit for Ladakh

Itinerary for Visiting Ladakh in September

Your Ladakh travel itinerary in November will start with checking in to your hotel and exploring the local areas of Leh on the first day. 

The second day commences with local sightseeing to the restaurants in the Leh Market and Shanti Stupa. You can also witness the barracks and trenches on this day. 

On the third day, you will be taken to Nubra Valley through Khardung La. Your way will pass through Diskit Monastery , Maitreyu Buddha, and Samstening Gompa. 

Day 4 will be an entire day exploring the picturesque village and the Royal House of the Yabgo dynasty. 

Following days will be kept for exploring the other famous tourist attractions like Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri, and Korzok. 

After exploring Leh for about nine days, you will bid adieu to the place to leave back for your home.  Click Here To Book:  Ladakh Tour Packages From Kolkata                                     Leh Ladakh Family Tour Packages

Routes Conditions

Leh to pangong route in september.

Leh to Nubra Valley in September

Nubra Valley is located at a 5-hour journey distance from Leh. There are two routes to reach Nubra Valley. You can either ride through Khardung La or Wari La. If you are traveling from Leh in September, you need to be careful as the roads are a little bumpy, but the mountain views subside all the obstacles. If you love challenges and adventure, you should take the Wari La route. But, you should be cautious because the roads are less trodden and are broken at some places. You will find this route to be filled with dirt, rocks, and even water. On the other hand, the Khardung La route is comparatively better. You Can Also Book:  Ladakh Group Tour                                     Ladakh Tour From Pune

Leh to Tso Moriri in September

Tso Moriri is situated at an elevation of 14836 feet, and it will take you around 8 to 9 hours from Leh to reach there, depending upon your speed and brakes. Since Tso Moriri comes under the area of the Inner Line, you need to take an Inner Line Permit (ILP) if you wish to visit this lake from Ladakh in September. On the contrary, a foreign traveler is required to take a Protected Area Permit. On your route, you will cross Tsaga La, Changa La, Tanglang La, and Namashang La Pass. If you want the best road trip experience, you should take another route from Tso Kar and Moore Plains. Planning a Trip To Ladakh, Then Book Now:  Manali to Leh Ladakh Bike Trip from Delhi

Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake Direct Route

The Nubra Valley to Pangong Lake Direct Route is quite popular among domestic tourists. If you have planned a short trip to Leh, you should take this route. The road conditions on this route are stabilized enough to have a smooth road trip experience. Moreover, it is shorter than the Wari La route.  This way, you can save one day in your Leh Ladakh travel itinerary. However, you need to be careful between Agham and Shyok Villages as the road sections are tricky and are prone to landslides. If you are traveling on this route in September, you will not get any river swelling, and the road is free to explore.   Also Checkout: Leh Ladakh Bike Trip Packages

Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri Direct Route

There are two direct routes to reach Tso Moriri from Pangong Tso. The first route runs along the shoreline of Pangong Tso Lake through Loma-Nyoma and Mahe Bridge. You will find this route to be desolate. Moreover, some of the sections of road on this route are a bit tricky with some quicksand. There are chances that the small ground clearance vehicles can get stuck on this route. The other direct route diverges from Chushul. In this route, the condition further degrades and loses soil with sharp stones to some point, and then you will get a clear road to travel. Therefore, it is advisable to opt for the first direct route to reach Tso Moriri from Pangong Tso.   Must Read:  Mumbai to Ladakh -Travel Guide

Festivals to be Celebrated in Ladakh in September

Ladakh harvest festival.

Ladakh Festival

The Ladakh Festival is a great festival celebration of Leh in September that portrays a blend of Tibetan, Central Asian, and Northern Indian cultures. It brings the festive ambiance of sports into light that is filled with immense joy and warmth. The locals march through the markets and streets dancing and singing to the traditional tunes Also Checkout and Book:  Premium 6 Days Leh Ladakh Sightseeing Tour

Places to see & things to do in Ladakh in September

Nubra valley.

Pangong Lake

 Popularly known as the Mountain Lake, Tso Moriri is one of the two most famous lakes in the Ladakh region. It is a calming and serene high-altitude lake that displays the reflection of snow-clad mountains drenched in the gorgeous blue waters of the lake. But, it is advisable not to visit this place in September as the place experiences temperatures ranging between -10 to -25 degrees celsius.  If you are strong enough to bear the hard cold winds, you can pay a visit to get a glimpse of this frozen beauty Also Read: Delhi to Leh Ladakh by Road Guide

Tso Kar is the tiniest of all the three high-altitude lakes of the Ladakh region. Perched at an elevation of 15280 feet, Tso Kar is surrounded by huge mountain ranges covered in snow. Visitors are mesmerized by its beauty as they can spot white salt-like particles sprinkled around the lake that complements well with the blue watercolor. You can visit this place in Ladakh in September when the migratory birds come to this lake to lay their eggs. You can also find some of the other beautiful flora and fauna around the lake. Must Read: Srinagar to Leh Road Trip Guide

Regarded as the most famous tourist attraction in Jammu and Kashmir, Leh Palace also stands among the best places to visit in Leh Ladakh in September . The palace possesses an unparalleled atmosphere that pleases each and every visitor.  The architecture of the palace will remind you of medieval Tibetan architecture, and that is what differentiates it from the other attractions of the region. You will find the palace even more attractive when you look at it from a distance at night.  Planning To Rent a Bike, Then Checkout:  Leh Ladakh Bike Rentals

Shanti Stupa

Hemis Monastery

Thiksey Monastery

Enjoy local food

Go Shopping

Hall of Fame

Hall of Fame is a commemoration of Indian soldiers that lost their lives while fighting with Pakistani troops in the Kargil War in 1999. It hosts a vast collection of weapons of the war that has been showcased to present the grandiosity of the soldiers. On the other part of the museum, you will find the apparels that were worn by the soldiers during wartime. All these things are an example of the never give up attitude of the Indian soldiers.  Also Read: Manali to Leh by Bus

Deskit Gompa

 Deskit Gompa is the oldest and the largest monastery located amidst the towering mountains of Leh. It came into existence in the fourteenth century and is a favorite tourist destination for all. The monastery provides a spellbinding view of the bordering valleys, villages, and mountain terrains. The large drums and the pictures of the religious deities also enhance the look of the monastery. If you are thinking of going to Ladakh in September, you should definitely visit this monastery with your kids. Also Checkout:  Leh Ladakh in February

People Also Ask About Ladakh

Is ladakh open in september.

Yes, Ladakh is open in September, and you should definitely visit Ladakh during this month. Ladakh in September experiences pleasant weather with less crowd, and it is the perfect time to enjoy adventure activities in Leh like camping, cycling, trekking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. Therefore, Ladakh offers a plethora of things to visitors during this month. Must Checkout:  Leh Ladakh in August

Is Ladakh safe for tourists in September?

Yes, Ladakh is very safe for tourists during this month. It enjoys the perfect weather for travel during this month, and you need to worry about your safety in Leh in September. You can either take a flight or travel by road without any security reasons. Must Checkout:  Leh Ladakh in July

How to plan Leh Ladakh in September by car?

The Leh trip in September is the best for a perfect getaway from the humdrum of city life. During this time, there is not much traffic and the roads are clear for a car trip to Leh. If you are planning to visit Leh Ladakh in September by car, consider the following things:

Ensure that your car is in working condition.

Carry extra fuel.

Keep all your valuables, like permits, insurance, photo ID proof, and other documents handy. Also Checkout:  Leh Ladakh in May

Why travel to Ladakh in September?

September is considered to be the best month for traveling to Ladakh. During this time, you will find less crowd in Ladakh, and the roads are also open, unlike the other months when the roads are wet and slippery due to snow. You can even get a glimpse of the beautiful attractions of the town. Visitors can take part in adventurous activities as well. Must Checkout:  Leh Ladakh in January

Is Leh open in October?

Although the weather in Leh during October is relatively cold and the roads are covered in snow, it is open for tourists for sightseeing activities. During this time, you can pay a visit to all the tourist places like Shanti Stupa, Leh Palace, Thiksey Monastery, Hemis Monastery, and the local market. Explore More:  Manali to Sarchu -Travel Guide in 2022

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Heaven, Peace, Silence, and Tranquility at one place? Come and spend a few hours at Pangong Lake in Ladakh! A pristine place in Ladakh marked by subtle to high peaks around, crystal blue waters and the vast expansion catches the eye so much, so long as if a magic is happening right in front of the eyes. Let our Ladakh holiday packages transport you to this mesmerizing destination, where nature's grandeur unfolds in every corner.Pangong Lake, also known as Pangong Tso, lies calmly at a breathtaking elevation of 14,270 feet. Interestingly, the lake is 12 km long and marks itself between the laps of India and China. Rather, 60% of the portion is stretching in the neighboring nation and this excites every traveler to be here.The surreal clean blue waters are actually brackish or salty in nature and this feature doesn’t let any aquatic life survive in the same. Moreover, the temperature range between -30 to -10 degrees make even this salty lake freeze with thick ice sheets, which is quite opposite in case of salt ridden water bodies.This picturesque landscape location enhances its beauty with the arrival of migrating birds every year and attracts many travelers in search of adventure, photographs, bird-watching and chilling experience. Pangong has another unique and catchy feature; when it acts like a chameleon and changes its color from blue to green to even grey at times. The brackish water of Pangong attracts the migratory birds every year during winters in Ladakh.

One of the most beautiful parts of the moonscapes of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a deep-cut gorge created by the combined effects of Shyok and Nubra (Siachen) rivers. A high altitude cold desert, Nubra Valley is actually an extension of the Tibetan Plateau (Qing-Zang Plateau) that starts in China and extends up to Ladakh. This valley in the plateau separates the Ladakh Range from the Karakoram Range. But more than anything, Nubra Valley is the most beautiful region in all of Ladakh. Home to wonders like the Diskit Monastery,Hunder Sand Dunes, Samstanling Gompa, Yarab Tso Lake, and the villages of Turtuk and Panamik.Located about 160 km from Leh, the capital of Ladakh, Nubra Valley is a great attraction to all those who come here. The gateway to the upper reaches of the country, especially Siachen, Nubra Valley has an oasis of a town in the heart, Diskit, making a great place to stop you and reflect at the beauty around. And while you are at it, take a short detour to the famous white sand dunes of Hunder. The shapes and forms that these dunes take during different times of the year mesmerize every visitor who comes here. To make it further interesting, there are the double-humped Bactrian Camels, offering rides through the dunes.And when it turns dusky, head to the Diskit Monastery and visit the towering statue of Maitreya Buddha which looks over the entire valley and blesses it for another day to come.Planning a Trip to Ladakh, Experience of Chadar Trek - The Frozen River Trek

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The Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Climate, Festivals and Other Things to Do

David Bathgate/Getty Images

High-altitude Ladakh, in the far northern Indian Himalayas , has an extreme climate with a long and brutal winter. Hence, the best time to visit Ladakh is during the region's summer when the snow on the high passes melts—that is, unless you're heading there for adventure travel!

Read more about the top things to do in Ladakh .

The Weather in Ladakh

The climate in Ladakh is divided into only two seasons: four months of summer (from June until September) and eight months of winter (from October until May). Summer temperatures are pleasant and range from 59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 25 degrees Celsius), whereas winters are extremely cold. Temperatures in the region can drop as low as -40 degrees!

Peak Season in Ladakh

If you want to beat the tourist rush and get discounted accommodations, visit Ladakh in late April or May when the weather is starting to warm up and businesses are beginning to re-open. If you want to see plenty of snow but experience warmer weather, and don't mind the crowds, visit Ladakh during June or July. August is peak monsoon time and it does rain (either a lot or a little), so you may want to avoid traveling there then or go towards the end of the month. The bursts of colorful leaves on trees make mid-September until mid-October picturesque. Temperatures start dropping and the tourist season is over, so it's much quieter.

Getting to Ladakh

Flights to Leh, the erstwhile royal capital of Ladakh, operate year-round. Roads within Ladakh are also open throughout the year. However, the passes leading into Ladakh are buried under snow during the colder months. Therefore, if you wish to drive (the scenery is spectacular and it helps with acclimatization, although the two-day journey is long and grueling), the time of year will be an important consideration.

There are two roads to Ladakh:

• Manali-Leh Highway is the most popular route. It cuts through five high mountain passes including Rohtang Pass in the Pir Panjal range, and three passes in the Zanskar range (Baralacha Pass, Lachulung Pass, and Taglang Pass at 17,480 feet above sea level). This route does have a steep ascent, which may cause altitude sickness. It's open from around mid-June until early October. However, travel becomes risky from mid-September onward due to the chance of snow, and reduced options for accommodations and transport (many buses and taxis stop running).
• The Srinagar-Leh Highway (NH 1D) is the most reliable and least challenging route. It runs alongside the Indus River and via Zoji Pass, Drass ( the second coldest inhabited place on Earth ), Kargil, and Fotu Pass (the highest pass on the route at an altitude of 13,478 feet above sea level). It's usually open from mid-May or early June until the end of October or mid-November. However, July and August are best avoided, as you'll have to contend with both monsoon rain and the bulk of pilgrims going on the Amarnath Yatra. In addition, some people may wish to avoid Srinagar and Kashmir due to the ongoing civil unrest plaguing the area.

When to Visit Ladakh for Trekking Season

The main trekking season extends from June to September in Ladakh. However, the Chadar Trek is a renowned winter trek in the region. From mid-January until the end of February, the Zanskar River forms a slab of ice so thick that it's possible for humans to walk across it. It's the only way in and out of the snow-bound Zanskar region. The Chadar Trek, ranging from seven to 21 days in duration, moves from cave to cave along this icy "road." Read more about the best treks to take in Ladakh for all fitness levels .

Hemis National Park is open year-round but the best time to visit to spot the elusive snow leopard is between December and February when it comes down to the valleys.

Spring is one of the most beautiful and scenic times to visit Ladakh. Trees are blooming, yet the mountains are still snow-capped, creating amazing landscapes.

Events to check out:

• The annual Nagrang Festival typically takes place in March at Matho Monastery. It marks the appearance of trance oracles that perform stunning acts and give predictions.

Summer is popular with trekkers and visitors of all kind. Temperatures are warm, but rarely exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit (32 degrees Celsius), and days are long and sunny. Both of the roads to Ladakh are easy to drive at this time of year as well, an important consideration for some travelers.

• The  Sindhu Darshan Festival (June)  is a performing arts and culture festival on the banks of the Sindhu River.
• The  Hemis Festival (June or July) is celebrated with two days of traditional music, colorful masked dances, and a fair full of striking handicrafts at Hemis Monastery.

Fall is not quite as busy as summer but still offers fantastic weather. While some campsites will have shut down for the season, hotel room rates are less than summer's peak.

• The  Ladakh Marathon (September)  hosts various running races in and around Leh, for Indian and international competitors.
• The tourist season winds up in Leh with Ladakh Festival (September), the biggest festival of the region. It features a captivating street procession, polo matches, archery shows, cultural performances, and handicraft exhibitions.
• September's Nubra Festival brings folk dances and music to different villages.
• The annual two-day  gustor  ritual is part of November's Thiksey Festival at Thiksey Monastery.

Winter in Ladakh is quite harsh, and thus, many travelers choose not to visit during this season. Those who do make the trek will be rewarded with solitude and a seemingly never-ending stretch of mountain ranges, valleys, and monasteries. Temperatures can be brutally cold. 

• Losar is a 15-day festival that marks the beginning of the New Year in Ladakh. The main celebrations happen on the first three days.
• Spituk Festival, held in January or February, marks the annual two-day  gustor  ritual at Spituk Monastery.
• Dosmoche, held in February, is part of a grand two-day celebration of good over evil, originally started by Ladakh royalty, at Leh Palace, and Diskit and Likir monasteries.

Known for its brutal winters, the best time to visit is during the summer when the snow on the high pass has melted.

Ladakh's busiest months are June and July, so if you want to avoid the crowds consider visiting in late April and May.

Monsoon season in Ladakh begins in July and ends in September, however August tends to be the peak month for heavy rain.

Britannica. "Ladakh." Retrieved March 8, 2021.

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A Summer Exploring the Culture and Sights of Ladakh

• Group Tours Calendar
• Planning, Sightseeing & Routes
• Preparing for Ladakh Trip
• Stay, Eat, Permits & Others
• Taxis, Self-Drives & Bike Rentals
• Public Transport & Budget Travel
• Preparing for Spiti Valley Trip

Best Time to Travel Ladakh & Zanskar Valley

A lot of people ask me this many times on the blog to suggest the best time to travel to Leh Ladakh , and I thought it is better to pen it down in an article so that it helps others too and does not repeat on the blog all over again and again.

Well, there are two roads that lead you to Leh Ladakh popular by the names of Srinagar Leh Highway and Manali Leh Highway . Both of them generally remain closed for more than six months from November to April or Mid-May every year because of heavy snowfall on various mountain passes that comes on these adventurous roads.

So, the only time to travel by road to Leh Ladakh is from Mid-May to Mid – October. And the second half of October is a risky affair to travel and May is the only likely option for Srinagar – Leh Highway as Manali – Leh Highway generally opens by June first week or late May.

But, still, the question is :

Let's quickly dive into the details:

“What is the best time to travel Leh Ladakh in these 5-6 months?”

Leh ladakh in april to mid-may.

April is the month when tourists or travelers from all parts of the world start to come to Ladakh. Restaurants start to either open or set up for the coming season. Similarly, the guest houses, camps at Pangong Tso, and Tso Moriri lakes also start to be set up.

By the second week of May, generally, the Srinagar Leh Highway opens, and the influx of tourists starts to get into Ladakh. Supplies flow in along with fresh vegetables and fruits. Hence life comes to normalcy in Ladakh.

In late April, all lakes including Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri start to melt, and by mid-May, they completely melt and start radiating the ever-beautiful blue hues under sunlight. Tourists / Travellers visiting these places get good discounts as it is the onset of the season and with fewer tourists around, it is indeed a better place to be.

The high mountain passes in Ladakh including both Khardung La and Chang La, are under heaps of snow, and passing through them is quite an experience in itself. Carrying shades/glares/goggles are highly recommended at this time of the year.

Leh Ladakh in May – June – July

As I said, in May, most likely, you will only find Srinagar – Leh to be open, so if you are interested in the complete circuit, then it is not the right time. In June beginning or May end, Manali road opens with the opening of Rohtang Pass.

In the initial 7-10 days, the roads are pretty much unstable with common snow slides, and intermittent blockages also happen, but gradually it settles down. And from Mid of June to July just before the onset of monsoon season, it is a very nice time to travel, and indeed a lot of people undertake the road journey to Ladakh at this specific window only.

Dheeraj Sharma

It is the perfect time for those who want to enjoy snow around the road and drive through the snow walls of Rohtang Pass / Rani Nalla and Baralacha La too. However, keep in mind that snow starts to melt which means, ferocious water crossings and rivers are pretty common in this period.

Later you will reach a water crossing in the day, slim are the chances to cross it. So, plan to leave early in the day and reach the early in the day on the destination to have buffer time as well.

from Mid of June to July just before the onset of monsoon season, it is a very nice time to travel and indeed a lot of people undertake the road journey to Ladakh at this specific window only. Best time to travel for seeing snow in Ladakh

Leh Ladakh in August

In August, monsoons are in a full flurry, and rivers and water crossings go ferocious at times when rain is pouring down. Landslides are common too in this period. However, there is a catch, the region beyond Zozi La Pass towards Leh from the Srinagar side and beyond Baralacha La pass towards Leh from the Manali side, being a rain shadow region does not get much affected by rains.

But, surely you will be facing the monsoon hassles up to Baralacha La pass from Manali side and Zozila Pass from Srinagar side. Of course, as happening for the last few years Rohtang Pass & Zojila are most likely to be a nightmare in this period.

Even the definition of Ladakh being the rain shadow region is changing now. We have started getting rain in Ladakh too or at least overcast conditions with light rains now and then. Few cloudbursts and flash floods also have occurred in a couple of years, including 2018. So, be ready for surprises even in the rain shadow region of Ladakh too in the coming years.

Leh Ladakh in September – October

Personally, this is my favorite season to travel to Ladakh with vibrant & burning colors all over in full glory. Post-monsoon, the region becomes devoid of rains and the chill starts to set in with some intermittent light snowfall.

However, the colors of fall/autumn are almost burning with beauty all over the Srinagar Leh Road, Manali Leh Road, and, of course, the entire Ladakh, including Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri & Nubra Valley. The road conditions also improve a lot in comparison to the rest of the season. You will witness the best roads of the season since the maintenance works also settle by that time. It is the best time to self-drive to Ladakh if you are taking a small car like a hatchback or sedan to Ladakh.

Even the water crossings are timid in flow with less water in them and are easy to pass by. The rivers turn into aqua blue color again, giving an entirely different aura to the region. Your body is at the maximum exposure to UV rays, and due to lack of moisture, it becomes a bit difficult to acclimatize as well. But, the beauty on offer is worth anything in the world 😀

Also, it is time when some camps have closed and packed up, and some still run. There is occasional snowfall as well, which might close the road for a day or two temporarily. The Raid-De-Himalayas rally also happens in this window which also disturbs you as a traveler to some extent.

Personally, this is my favorite season to travel to Ladakh with vibrant & burning colors all over in full glory. for those who love vibrant fall colors

Leh Ladakh in November

The period of late October and November is when the cold settles into Trans Himalayas completely with sub-zero temperatures at almost all places above 14000 feet especially over the Manali Leh highway and the high-altitude lakes. The colors though are still beautiful in the region, tourists have almost gone away and only a few brave ones remain 🙂 :).

Most of the guest houses, hotels, and restaurants are closed by this time along with camps at Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri lakes, which are packed up by the last week of September. Dhabhas and camps on Manali Leh Highway are also deserted, and locals go away to their homes to get ready for hibernation in cold winters.

Though both Manali Leh Road and Srinagar Leh Road remain open unofficially, it is highly not recommended to travel over them, especially the Manali Leh Highway with such cold conditions. There will not be many shelters available and black ice on roads that make driving a dangerous affair. Black ice is quite common in this period it starts to appear in October starting as well at some places though it does not last long in the early stages or the winter season.

Interesting Read: 5 Reasons to Avoid Manali – Leh Highway in October – November

Leh Ladakh in December – January – February – March

This period is the coldest in Ladakh where January is the coldest month of all seasons, and Ladakh is cut off from the rest of the world by road. Only a few brave and bold tourists are around even though the roads to Nubra Valley and Pangong Tso Lake over Khardung La Pass, and Chang La Pass respectively are kept open all around the year barring a few days of heavy snowfall .

Late January to February is also the time when many adventure tourists come to Leh Ladakh to walk over the frozen Zanskar River from Padum in Zanskar Valley to Leh , popularly known as Chadar Trek.

In this period, you are at the mercy of extreme cold. Snowfall as well is pretty common and mingled with high-altitude terrain; it makes life difficult to survive and acclimatize as well. The key is to take rest, ample rest in the initial days. Then, gradually start overreaching other high-altitude places. The food options are minimal, and most of the restaurant lives are deserted as their cook is out at their homes.

From November to December / Mid-January types, if the sun is shining the colors in the Lakes such as Pangong Tso or Tso Moriri is breathtaking but the options to stay near them are none or limited. Just some Home Stays in nearing villages where basic facilities will be available to brave the extreme cold.

After Mid-January, both Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri along with other high-altitude lakes start to freeze and become solid as earth as you can drive your car over it, leave alone walk over it. Be responsible and don’t do that of course 😉

These lakes remain frozen almost up to April. So, those looking forward to seeing the magical changing colors of these lakes with sunlight in the day shall refrain from making a trip to Ladakh from January to late April, which is almost for four months.

Still confused??

Are you still confused?? Don’t worry. I will suggest if you want to see heaps of snow and have a good adventure, then you must plan your road trip to Ladakh starting June first/ the second week up to mid of July types.

However, if you are more interested in nature’s lovely colors pallet and maybe you are very much into photography, then the late season is the time. You do not want to miss out on, i.e., late September up to the second week of October when colors are oozing out vividly all over Ladakh!!

Have a travel question?? You can subscribe to my YouTube ch annel and leave a comment to ask your travel questions about traveling to the Himalayas.

Do you have any questions or suggestions or need any help in planning your trip to Leh Ladakh? If yes, please feel free to post them either in the comments section of this article below. You can also take guidance from many travel experts in our DwD Community Forums and discuss your upcoming travel plans for Ladakh.

If you like the article, please feel free to share it with any of your family or friends who are planning a trip to Ladakh.

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I am Dheeraj Sharma - a traveler, techie, and Himalayan lover. Since 2009, I have been helping thousands of travelers every year plan memorable & budget-friendly trips to the Himalayas - Smartly, Safely, and responsibly.

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Hello I am planning to visit leh by flight on 29th August 2019 with my wife & 12 year old daughter. Is it save to travel that time considering rainy season.

Bro! We are a group of friends planning our trip from April 28th and fly directly to leh, will we be able to enjoy our trip without any obstructions(like snow ) or the pangong lake being Frozen or unavailability of accommodation ?

You should look at Leh – Ladakh in Winters – Most Common Itinerary

It will answer all your questions 🙂

What about mid May? I really want to see the unfrozen beauty of pangong!!

In that case plan for mid May to late May, it should melt by that time of the year

we have planned and booked flight ticket from Bangalore to Srinagar on 24th April and return from Leh on 6th May 2018. Plan is to spend 4-5 days in Srinagar and then travel by road to Leh and spend 6-7 days there visiting Nubra , pangong and other sorrounding.

Please suggest as we heard that Srinagar – Leh highway is closed till April end.

Sunil, Srinagar – Leh Highway may or may not be open by last week of April. Considering BRO has already opened Zanskar Valley road, I have hopes by mid of April, they will open Srinagar – Leh Highway too.

Hi Dheeraj,

We two friends are planning a leh ladakh trip in September. We want to experience everything including the snow; hence, what would be your suggestion? Is it good in September? Yes, then which part of the month? Waiting for your reply.

Hari, there will be no snow in September. If you want to enjoy snow, then you have to plan the trip in April – May but then roads are not open and only option is to fly to Ladakh. Else June is when you will find plenty of snow at passes in Ladakh and Manali – Leh Highway

Hi! Planning to go Leh by air on 24th Sep n bck by 2 October by road via Manali .i want to know if October first week will be safe by road from Leh to Manali n and also why return airfares are soo high from Leh.i Jst don’t want to get stuck there because of snow on d way bck

Chaand, just keep an eye on weather once you reach Leh and then take a call. Nowadays, usually first week of October os still OK to travel but sometimes it does snow. Also, plan to directly reach Jispa from Leh without halt at Sarchu.

Hello Dheeraj

I was planning for a trip from Manali tto Leh ladakh and back from Aug 26 to Sep 5. Is it a good timeI for travel? Read every where u mentioned that Aug is not a good time to visit Leh,,

Regards ANimesh

So here is what my Ladakh trip looks like… starting on 16th September and ending on 30th September.

Day 1: Noida – Patnitop (Overnight stay at Patnitop) Day 2: Patnitop – Sonmarg (Overnight stay at Sonmarg) Day 3: +++ Rest Day at Sonmarg + Sight Seeing in Sonmarg & Gulmarg +++ (Overnight stay at Sonmarg) Day 4: Sonmarg – Kargil (Overnight stay at Kargil) Day 5: Kargil – Leh (Overnight stay at Leh) Day 6: +++ Rest Day at Leh + Sight Seeing in & around Leh +++ (Overnight stay at Leh) Day 7: Leh – Nubra Valley (Overnight stay at Diskit) Day 8: Nubra Valley – Pangong Tso Lake (Overnight at Pangong Tso Lake) Day 9: Pangong Tso – Leh (Overnight stay at Leh) Day 10: Leh – Tso Moriri Lake (Overnight stay at Korzok) Day 11: Tso Moriri – Jispa (Overnight stay at Jispa) Day 12: Jispa – Manali (Overnight stay at Manali) Day 13: +++ Rest Day at Manali + Sight Seeing in & around Manali +++ (Overnight stay at Manali) Day 14: Manali – Noida Day 15: Buffer Days Day 16: Buffer Days

Do you think that this plan looks good? I am assuming that I have taken enough breaks in between for the body to acclimatize to the conditions up there! Let me know if there are any changes that you want to suggest!

I would also welcome any feedback from fellow members here!

Thanks and Regards, Abhishek

Looking for a suggestion.

Can I visit just Leh -> Zanskar -> Leh in August ? Is this is good time or will there be rains?

Plan: Sat, Aug 5: Leave Mumbai by flight to Leh, Start on bike / rent car to Kargil Sun, Aug 6: Kargil to Zanskar Mon, Aug 7: Back to Kargil Tue, Aug 8: Back to Leh Wed, Aug 9: Back to Mumbai

Please let me know if the climate is good this time and if this is doable in such short time.

Well since you are flying directly to Leh, it is rain shadow region and hence, even in monsoon, it is fine. However, Zanskar needs at least 4-5 days from Kargil and for Kargil – Leh you need minimum two days. Hence, in 5 days it is not possible.

ok.. thank you for the quick reply.. will plan it well for next year 🙂

Me and my husband are planning to visit Leh-Ladakh (via Manali) from Delhi in the third week of September’ 2017 in our “Ford Eco-sport”. We are a little confused whether it will be OK to take Eco – sport to Leh Ladakh. How much wear and tear can happen to it, and will our Ford Eco-sport will be able to sustain it, as the Ford guys told us not to take it to Leh-ladakh, as it is city car and not made for off road. Can you please guide us? Also, want to know how to connect with other people who are planning their visit to Leh-Ladakh at the same time as it will be good to stay connected with them while travelling.

Neha, Ford EcoSport is very capable of doing the Leh – Ladakh trip. So, don’t worry much about it, just be cautious in driving. You can read: 40 Must Have Things to Carry on Ladakh Self Drive Trip and 7 Useful Tips for a Self Drive to Leh – Ladakh

We are a group of people (2 couples) who would also be travelling to Leh Ladakh (starting on 16th September from Noida and ending on 30th September 2017). But we would be travelling to Leh Ladakh from Srinagar side and would be completing the circuit from Manali side. During the 4th week of September we would be on the Manali side.

It is surely a good idea to connect while travelling.

Cheers! Abhishek

Mr.Sharma, This was a wonderful article. Thank you for providing information. I would like to ask if first week of Aug would be a good time to visit Leh. I am planning to go by air to Leh. Please give your opinion. Thanks.

Since you are planning to go by Air, Ladakh is a rain shadow region and least touched by rains. So, it shall be fine to make a trip by air to Ladakh

Hello dheeraj sir, Is this itinerary good for the 25th october. is this the right time travel ladakh. can we go all the places ?? Day 1 : Rest n local sights Day 2 : magnetic hill n pather sahib n acclimatization. Day 3 : leh to nubra Day 4 : nubra to pangong via Agham Day 5 : pangong to leh Day 6 : Return

Plz reply soon. Thanks

Given the days at hand, it looks fine. Please keep in mind it will be very cold in October at PAngong Tso, best will be to stay at Tangtse or do day trip from Leh.

Thanks for your valuable information. Actually we are planning to visit leh ladakh in 2nd wk of september for 10 days. please tell whether camping is advisable or not during that season if yes mentioned the best place for camping. also tell either visiting all famous lake i.e. pang, tso moriri etc is possible or not.

Thanks again.

Dann, September is a very good time to travel to Leh – Ladakh. You can read: Top 10 Tips for Camping in Ladakh & Spiti Valley

thanks for your reply. tell me about permit also , can’t we get them online so that we can save our time over there? where are these permits required during the traveling ??

Well, the Permits for Leh – Ladakh are available online: Ladakh Inner Line Permits Available Online

However, only permits are applied and you have to take the print out and pay your permit fee in person in Leh at Tourist Info Center or DC office in Leh.

Hi Dheeraj! I want to ask you very important question regarding bikers? The tussle going on between bikers of Manali and Leh is only for Rental bikes? and what about bikers who are on there own bikes, do they also have to face anytype of problems???

There is no issue at all for the own bikes in Ladakh.

I’m planning for a trip to Leh via Manali. Is it okay to plan the trip in August, or it is more advisable to travel by end of June. This will be my first experience, and we’re planning for an SUV.

Best is to travel in September for better road conditions and less challenges, else up to mid July is OK. Avoid monsoon travel in August.

Dear Dheeraj, I am planning a 10 daya trip to Leh with my wife, 7yo son, two brothers starting on 15th June. I will planning to take my Baleno Diesel. It’s the very first time for me to visit Leh. Request your kind suggestions as I am really confused about whether I should make this trip or not. Also request you to advise on travel itinerary and stay options. Look forward for an early response. Thanks.

For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.

It will take 4 days to reach Leh from Srinagar side starting from Delhi with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil and 3 days to come back from Leh from Manali side to Delhi with stopovers at Sarchu, Manali. This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 10 days. 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.

Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days . You can fit in plan I suggested in above para in this plan You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here

Thanks again for your valuable suggestions. I have made up my mind for 9 days itinerary suggested by you via Manali -Leh route. Just bit concerned about road conditions vs Baleno. Will be happy if you suggest any precautions.

Actually I am looking for this type of information from very long time but bi cant found it clearly but you describe all this very clearly! Thanks for this article.

That is wonderful to hear, glad the article helped you.

Can we will go to Leh (Manali to Leh via jispa) own car Chevrolet Sail Uva Hatchback 2014 Model. Can I go Chevrolet Sail Uva Hatchback 2014 Model say Yes or Not If we go by my own car – Do you advised me witch route is best for me Manali – Leh – Srinagar/ Srinagar – Leh – Manali . witch cars can cross the Manali – Leh – Srinagar Plz guide me. Please Car Name

As you advised, i have an iternary for my trip. at first can i go to leh rout as shown below by Chevrolet Sail Uva Hatchback 2014 Model I am also running this car to west bangal, char cham, dharmshala, deu all gujrat. so please advice me this car is suatable for me. and with equipment is required for this route.

June – 3: Manali – Jispa (overnight stay) June – 4: Jispa – Sarchu (overnight stay) June – 5: sarchu – Leh (overnight stay) June – 6: Leh – ride to sham valley and sight seeing June – 7: leh – Nubra (overnight stay) June – 8: Nubra – Pangong tso (camping) June – 9: Pangong Tso – Tso moriri – Leh (overnight stay) June – 10: Leh – kargil June – 11: kargil – srinagar

I am still waiting for your suggestion.

Hello Mahesh,

Please avoid night stay at Sarchu and to Manali – Jispa, Jispa – Leh. Then use that day to make two day trip to Nubra Valley and two day trip to Pangong Tso by regular routes as the direct routes, hatches might not survive or you may get stuck in the middle of no help around. Skip Tso Moriri.

Also, if you do the trip in reverse direction, it will be much better. For hatchback/sedan taking on Manali – Leh Highway Or Spiti Valley via Manali Or Ladakh, please refer the link: FAQ | Can I do Leh – Ladakh / Spiti / Manali – Leh trip in Hatchback or Sedan? for more details.

Hello Dheeraj you are amazing ! I am much keen for bike trip on Manali Leh Highway in September as that is the time when road conditions will become good. But some of our female friends wants to live “Jab We Met” moment (or snow ki toh baat hi kuch or hai) so we are travelling in June.. My only concern is for road conditions in mid June specially “Rohtang Pass” I have heard that in june we have to deal with lots of slush on “Rohtang Pass” but as we are going before monsoon so we are hoping we will get some good roads as compare to july or August .. Your knowledge is highly appreciable. So what is your take on “Rohtang Pass” in mid of June ???

Shubham, for snow you have to make a trip around mid of June and also have to go through some bad sections of the roads. The roads will definitely be more challenging as snow melts during that time creating slush and water crossings at many places.

Thank you Friend, Under the guidance of “Devil on wheels” it seems like we are all ready for the trip & the conditions.. Yeah we are expecting water crossings & slush thats the main adventure of this trip but we hope not as much as you have shown in above pics during mid june “Nightmarish roads of Rohtang Pass” ???

Most likely, you will not face that much of slush during that time unless there is debris of fresh landslide.

Thank you so much Dheeraj 🙂

Hi Sir, Your page is awsome. We have a plan in August Please tell whether it is feasible or not.

14thAugust :- DELHI – Leh 15th August:- Leh 16th August:- Leh – Turtuk 17th August:- Turtuk – Nubra Valley 18th August:- Nubra – Pangong Via Aghyam Shiyok( We are in a doubt about it) 19th August:- Pangong – Leh 20th August:- Leh – Alchi – Magnetic hill – Kargil 21th August:- Kargil – Padum 22nd August:- Padum 23rd August:- Padum Or Rnagdum or Sankoo 24th August:- Back to Kargil 25th August:- Kargil – Srinagar 26th August:- Srinagar – Kolkata

Your plan looks good to me. On 23rd, you can stay at Rangdum. There is a new guest house there called LA Himalaya with attached bathrooms.

We have contacted Rigzin Da. He is managing except Kargil and Leh. Will it be wise to use Agyam Shiyok road to reach Pangong During August???

Well, as long as you can find some company to travel with you at Agham village, local driver should be able to get you through with that route. You will get to know about the present status once you reach up there.

Thank you so much dheeraj for your precious info 🙂 We are planning to visit Manali-Leh on the mid of June17 and will take halt in Keylong/Jispa & Sarchu but as it is the peak time of tourists attraction.. is it advisable to pre book our accommodations near Keylong/Jispa & Sarchu or we will easily get accomodations after reaching there ???

Arjun, I will not recommend you to have a night halt at Sarchu while going to Leh. You can stay while coming back. Keylong has plenty of options and if you are not particular, you can find. For Jispa, I will suggest to pre-book as limited options are there.

Thank you Dheeraj, There is no plan to have a halt at Sarchu as altitude is so high there but if we have to Just for the knowledge is it advisable to pre book our accomodations at Sarchu or we will get easily after reaching there??? & we will come back through via Srinagar 🙂

Good, yeah, in such a case it should be OK. Also keep Tso Kar in mind in case of emergency for a stay. It is not that far from the main highway.

There will be plenty of options at Sarchu, since, it is not final to stay there, better book it on the spot.

Hii Dheeraj thank you so much for your precious info 🙂 We are planning our trip to mid June17.. as it is the time when most tourists prefer to travel & we are planning to halt on Keylong/Jispa & Sarchu.. So do we have to pre book our accommodations as there are many tourists or we get accommodations easily after reaching there???

Replied on the other thread.

Hi Dheeraj, I am planning to visit Leh Ladakh in second half of October 2017. Is it advisable ? Will we get a chance to visit all the attractions ? Please give me your valuable suggestions.

Also to add, I am planning a trip of 10 days. I would request you to suggest me a better schedule.

Will you be flying to Leh or making road trip?

I will be flying. I have two options. Either in October 2017 Or around 15th May 2017. So, which option is preferable ? Please suggest me a better trip of 10 days.

Both the months are not so good for road trip but since you are flying I will suggest May over October with two points

1. In May you will find snow and pleasant weather at least in Leh, Nubra and around not as cold. 2. October, will be windy, cold and dry.

You should refer: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air

Are you making a road trip?

Hi Dheeraj, Thanks for the wonderful blog!!

Iam planning for a bike trip to leh via manali-leh route and come back through leh – srinagar highway to Delhi. I am planning to take this trip by either july or september. Also iam planning to complete the circuit in 9 – 10 days. Is it possible to complete it within planned time?? I wish to enjoy in light snowfalls. SO please advise me on the good time to take the rip.

Iam bit confused avout the permits. Do bikers from other state need to get permit in all places throughout manli leh highway??

In leh do we neef to drive j&k registered bikers?? Is own bikes or rented bikes not allowed in leh for expedition???

FInal question.. which is better to take the trip either through some travel agency package or going individual???

please clarify my doubts. Thanks in advance….

Give me your contact mail id……

Thank you Siraj.

It will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side with stopovers at Jispa, Manali and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil . This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 10 days. 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.

Thanks a lot Dheeraj for clarifying my queries.

Could you please advice me on the best season to start my trip. I wish to enjoy the trip with snowfall. How long snow will be there once the passes are opened up?

On going through blog, i got the clarification about the bike permits in ladakh region. Thanks a lot for the briefly analysed blogs. It’s a really helpful and much needed one for all the new comers.

Do [email protected] provide any packages for the leh-ladak trip?? I have found this one while reading the blog. you have also suggested some to get in touch with them for bike rentals and packages.

Siraj, in that case plan the trip in second week of June when you can see snow on Zojila and Manali – Leh Highway. Snowfall is pure luck based. Yes, those guys provide customized packages of Leh – Ladakh

If you travel form Manali to Rohtang Pass, permit is required for bikes too.

Thanks Dheeraj!!

As you advised, i have an iternary for my trip.

June – 17: Manali – Jispa (overnight stay) June – 18: Jispa – Sarchu (overnight stay) June – 19: sarchu – Leh (overnight stay) June – 20: Leh – ride to sham valley and sight seeing June – 21: leh – Nubra (overnight stay) June – 22: Nubra – Pangong tso (camping) June – 23: Pangong Tso – Tso moriri – Leh (overnight stay) June – 24: Leh – kargil June – 25: kargil – srinagar (fly to home)

does this iternary looks good? Need your thoughts on this.

By june 10, the manali-leh highway will be clearing up? So, i need your advice on starting the trip by this date. Becoz, you have specified like wait for 2 weeks once the roads are opened to stabilize.

Siraj, please skip Sarchu as you will not be acclimatized to sleep up there altitude. Better make Jispa to Leh in a day. No need to do Sham Valley but do rest as Sham Valley can be covered while going to Kargil. You cannot do Pangong Tso to Tso Moriri to Leh in a day. Skip Tso Moriri for now. It is probable that Manali – Leh Highway will open by second week of June.

Thank you very much for giving lots of useful information which is really needed for all the travelers.

Me and my friends are planning to ley ladhak trip. please suggest me, which way to choose Srinagar – ley or manalli -ley. and I’m worried about AMS. kindly suggest the good time to visit. your suggestion will really help me to make my trip memorable.

Thanks In Advance Srinivas

Firstly, I will suggest you that please plan it in other direction as going via Srinagar – Leh Highway will be much much easier on your body and help you acclimatize to the high altitude of Manali – Leh Highway. Also, it allows you to enjoy the beauty of Manali – Leh by splitting the journey almost evenly in two days which is very difficult in the other direction. Thirdly, it will allow you to fit Tso Moriri lake into the itinerary in better way. You can read more reasons on the link here

You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh .

You can check the nice, preferred list of accommodation options in entire Leh – Ladakh (Leh, Nubra Valley, Pangong Tso, Tso Moriri) including moderate (cheap budget hotels as well) in the series of articles starting on the link here

Dear Dheeraj, Which would be a better date for arriving in leh this year 17 july or 24 july. We are 4 friends entering leh via srinagar and exiting via manali as per your suggestions. We would be taking zoomcar from chandigarh. We have to complete the chandigarh-leh-chandigarh circuit in 9 days . Kindly suggest keeping in mind the road and monsoon condition.

Faraz, I will prefer 17th July to travel to Ladakh. It will take 3 days to reach Leh from Delhi via Manali side with stopovers at Jispa, Manali and 4 days to come back to Delhi from Leh via Srinagar side with stop overs at Jammu, Srinagar, Kargil . This makes it 7 days. 1 Day is required in Leh for acclimatization. You have about 10 days. 1 Day can be used as Day trip to Pangong Tso and other day can be used as day trip to Nubra Valley or just Khardung La pass.

Also, I hope you are aware about: Rented Self Drive Cars in Leh – Ladakh Banned “FORCIBLY”

This is Akshay from Mumbai; Me and three of my friends have planned the trip to Leh-Ladakh from 26th May to 4th June.

Actually at the start we were five however one of our friend dropped out due to some reasons;so we are looking for a someone to join us.

If you see blogs and travel tips for Leh-Ladakh trip u will find out that 5 is the best count to have if you are planning for Leh-Ladakh and of course to cut down cost of private vehicle because private vehicle is one of the important factor to have cost effective leh ladakh trip.

So those who want join please contact at my email : [email protected] and contact no :9664823811.

Will explain you all our itinerary on call or mail but for your information we are coming to Srinagar by flight which has halt at Delhi so anyone can join us from Mumbai, Delhi or Srinagar.

P.S : Those who planning leh ladakh for long tym and those who got ditched by their friends this is the tym guyz..we will together make one hell of trip!!!!!!

Regards, Akshay Mayekar

It is best to post a travel calendar entry as well from the main menu

Hi Dheeraj, firstly thanks a lot for writing this blog. Its very informative. I have always wanted to take a bike trip to Leh. I have not been riding much for past few years & I am someone who is very much susceptible to cold. Going by you blog, road conditions are poor in June-July season and in mid-September temperature will be a challenge. This has got me confused. Can you suggest which time i should go ? Also I want to opt for a packaged tour. Can you suggest any particular group or website ?

Vivek, well, you should be able to do the trip in September. You can do it in second week of September and you should be good with road conditions and temparatures. If you are looking for a package tour, get in touch with [email protected]

Last year i had trip from 10 June16 to 21June2016 through Delhi-Srinagar-Leh-Pangong-Sarchu-Manali-Delhi. In 2017 i want to start the trip in April last week or early may. What you suggest Please Guide.

Ashish, you will be able to only make the trip to Ladakh in April by air only. Are you going by Air? Or in case in May if Srinagar – Leh road opens, you will be able to take that road. How many days you are thinking?

Thanks for your reply Dheeraj. I am planning around 10-11 Days by Own car. Please suggest the earliest suitable time and Itinerary.

Earliest will be June month to go from Manali – Leh Highway.

Opt to go via Manali – Leh Highway and I will suggest that you refer the thread for more details on the route and night halts though it is of 9 days: Manali – Leh – Ladakh – Manali | Itinerary for 9 Days . You can fit in plan I suggested in above para in this plan

hey dheeraj,

kiddo to the blogg. honestly i have been researching about my trip for the last one month nothing helped expect your blogg..we are number of 4 on bikes, planning to travel on 1st week of july 17.around 10 days trip .can please help us with details.i have covered almost all the parts of south india on bike,what are the best places to visit during this time and which route preferably. we are planning to rent a bike from LAH or delhi.one of this place preferably what-so over is better.thank you so much in advance .regards shemeem (Kerala)

Regarding bike rentals in Leh, check: Leh – Ladakh Bike Rental Rates 2017-18

thank you so much dheeraj .do you advice taking flight instead to leh and rent a bike would save some time ?? please advice as me and my friend are looking for a good bike trip :’) is it possible during the 1st week of july

Best option of travel is to reach Srinagar by air and then travel to Ladakh by road. Once in Leh, hire local bike on rent in leh and then do Ladakh sightseeing. Then either take Manali Leh highway with HPTDC bus or shared taxi or fly out of Leh.

Dear Dheeraj,

I am having Safari Storme SUV -Ex (2 wheel drive) and planned to visit Ladakh by road via Manali-Leh route in 3rd week of June-17. I would like to know, other travelers are using 2 wheel drive or 4×4 is compulsory?

Devendra, 4×2 will just do fine. No worries on that front. 10000s of 4×2 cars including hatches and sedans do Ladakh trip every year.

Dheeraj, I am very confused now. I am planning this trip in late August’17. Most probably between 25th August and 10 September. Is it sane to go as I do not have much biking experience. I have done few trips on my bike and I cannot postpone it to 2018 as my friend has already decided to go this year no matter what. Only 2 of us will go on separate bikes. What would you suggest considering we will be on bikes not cars.I am not considering June or July as there will be a lot of rush that time. And its all about peace 😛

August is not far behind in terms of rush Vaibhav. I will recommend that you plan the trip in September second half to beat the rush and help you being a novice biker. The roads and conditions are less troublesome.

lol same here

We are four cousins (men) planning to take Manali Leh in mid June’ to July 2017as mentioned in this article (Mid of June to July just before the onset of monsoon season)- Could you share the road time table and also the good time to travel

Pavan, are you making the Spiti Valley trip or Ladakh trip or combination of both?

This is a very nice blog and it was very memorable trip It was such a fantastic post I really really like It Thanks for sharing Nice Information

Thank you Dorjay

Thank you so much for your blog. You made my jaw dropped because of many amazing information you have provided.

I plan to solo travel to Ladakh this September with budget trip. My itinerary is as below:

Day 1 (Wed): Arrive Leh from New Delhi, rest in Leh Day 2 (Thu): Rest in Leh Day 3 (Fri): Day 4 (Sat): Tso Moriri, overnight in Changpa Day 5 (Sun): Tso Moriri, overnight near the lake. Day 6 (Mon): Back to Leh by bus, overnight in Leh Day 7 (Tue): Head to Nubra Valley, rest in Diskit/ Hunder Day 8 (Wed): Diskit/ Hunder/ Nubra Valley, overnight in Spangmik Day 9 (Fri): Back to Leh by bus Day 10: Head to Pangong Lake, overnight near the lake Day 11: Head to Leh, rest in Leh Day 12: Head to Padum, Zanskar Valley, overnight in Padum Day 13: Head to Leh Day 14 + Day 15: From Leh to Delhi.

Do you have any recommendation? Is it ok if I should take a cab to go to Tso Moriri, Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake and back by bus? Is it safe for female traveler to bike in Ladakh?

Look forward to hearing from you soon.

You have good amount of days in hand and hence I will suggest you to follow the route as per acclimatization rules. First visit Nubra Valley, then visit Pangong Tso and then visit Tso Moriri. Padum, Zanskar requires 4-5 days at ease from Kargil, so I do not see you having time for it.

Thanks so much Dheeraj! I really love to go to Padum and Zanskar. It’s not easy for me if I skip those places 🙁

But you do not have 4-5 days in hand from Kargil. Can you spare time for it or skip other places?

Do you have any recommendation to change my itinerary so that I can have 4-5 days for Padum and Zanskar? I can skip other places. Thanks Dheeraj.

I am going to suggest following plan:

Day 1 (Wed): Arrive Leh from New Delhi, rest in Leh Day 2 (Thu): Move to Kargil Day 3 (Fri): Kargil to Padum (Zanskar) Day 4 (Sat): Rest day at Padum (Visit Karsha, roam around in Padum) Day 5 (Sun): Rest day at Padum (Visit Zangla, Stongde monasteries) Day 6 (Mon): Move to Kargil Day 7 (Tue): Move to Leh Day 8 (Wed): Move to Nubra Valley Day 9 (Fri): Nubra Valley to Leh Day 10: Head to Pangong Lake, overnight near the lake Day 11: Head to Leh, rest in Leh Day 12: Head to Tso Moriri Day 13: Tso Moriri to Leh Day 14 + Day 15: From Leh to Delhi.

Sending you thousand of kisses! Thank you Dheeraj.

Thank you 🙂

This is an amazing website.

I am planning to start my bike expedition from 21st of September. My route is Jammu – Srinagar-Kargil-Zanskar-Leh-Nubra-pangong-Tso moriri-Keylong-Dalhousie-Dharamshala

It will need atleast 25 days to cover all these places and i am least concerned about time as i had quit my job. Now i have questions like,

1) If i start from Jammu on 21st and reach Kargil on 23rd, Is it advisable to reach Zanskar(Padum) on 24-25th? Are roads accessible at that time? 2) If i start from jammu and follow the Sarchu – Manali highway in 2nd week of October, Is it advisable? 3) Contrary, if i start from Manali Leh highway, can i cover zanskar in the second week of October? I had to cover zanskar anyhow, thats why my plans are becoming very confusing.

Please reply as its becoming very confusing for me.

I also manage my personal blog, http://www.theCrazyRider.com

Great to connect Sachendra.

1. Yes, you can reach there to Padum but it will be a bit cold. 2. It will be risky and I do not recommend in general. Read: 5 Reasons to Avoid Manali – Leh Highway in October

Well, same problem will be with Zanskar Valley, I will not recommend that too that late in the season.

We have an offer for Pajero white board from a rental company. Do we face any issues in Leh from taxi union check posts?

Best Regards Gopinath

If they check papers, they need to be in your name or someone you can prove relation with.

Hello Dheeraj,

your website is a bible. I have almost figured out everything reading it. I am planning to visit Leh in the first week of october. Flight from Delhi to Ladakh. Could you recommend some hotels good for this season? ANy special care I should think of since I am travelling with 10 year old. Thanks.

You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh by Air followed by many travelers including me at the link here for 9 days: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air .

For the leh – ladakh taxi union rate list 2015 – 16 including the contacts of some reliable taxi drivers within Leh – Ladakh, check the link here . You can get about 10-12% of discount by directly getting in touch with drivers and of course, talking in person rather on phone always help in bargaining more.

For the list of good restaurants in Leh – Ladakh or eateries or food joints where food is enjoyed by many travellers including me, you can check the link here: List of Good Restaurants in Leh – Ladakh | Restaurant Reviews

Check the list of things to carry for Leh – Ladakh or other trip including basic medical kit, clothing, must haves etc. at the link here: List of Things to Carry for Leh – Ladakh trip .

We are a couple from Kolkata planned to travel Kashmir and leh with all sightseeing via kargil road by hiring motorcycle.From 11th October to 21 October… Will it be troublesome?? But we don’t want to cancel it….please suggest me in details…

I will not suggest going beyond Penzi La that late in the season. It will be a bit risky and of course dry and cold.

Thanks for your suggestion .But we are not going to pensi la.we want to travel lamayur,nubra,pangong. in motorcycle.Please suggest in details how safe are these.Is it safe for a single couple to travel Kashmir and leh by bike in that time??

You said Zanskar Valley, so thought you want to go to there. That should be OK but avoid coming back from MAnali side. Srinagar – Leh route is still OK in October. It will be cold, there will be less tourists around and most hotels/restaurants will be closed for the season.

Thanks. But I want to know how safe is pangong and nubra road for bike tour for a single couple in 3rd week of October…?? Please suggest..what may be the difficulties for single couple??

Safety wise, Ladakh is one of the safest places in terms of crime and they treat tourists like guests. But, it will be damn cold and yes of course deserted roads will be there as less tourists will be present. The response time in case of need or any help will be more and more as less people travel on these routes..

Please suggest me where can we get bike for hire in Srinagar and leg in October… Do we need to book it early or available that we can go and burgain there.

Supriyo, most things are shut in Srinagar now a days. You cannot use a srinagar bike in ladakh for sightseeing, so be aware about that. One side drop of bike will cost around 10K more.

Thank you.I have installed and registered in DOW apps but but I can’t post anything.. Anyway, we are a single couple planned a bike tour from 11october to 21 october.We have planned to hire bike in Srinagar for 4 days and travel to leh via kargil by public transport and again hire bike in leh for 5 days.Please suggest for.. 1.Where can we hire bike in Srinagar?? Cost??terms?? Anything else that I don’t know?? 2.Where can we hire bike in Leg??Cost??terms?? Anything else?? 3.Is panggong,nubra,lamayuru routes will be OK in those seasons for bike riding?? 4.what are the necessary things we should carry?? 5.how to know if anybody want to join us?? 6.Budget stays in pangong,nubra etc. Please suggest anything more to keep in mind that I don’t know…

Your first 5 posts are not visible unless approved. Your posts are already there and answered: https://discoverwithdheeraj.com/india/plan-ladakh-zanskar-trip/topic4507.html#p34716

Hi Dheeraj, Congratulation for your blog.. it is really interesting and useful. My girlfriend and I would like to go to ladakh the newxt november.. but it seems so cold overthere… so What do you think? are there any other interesting mountains sites in the India Himalaya region that are more accessible in that period? Or… if I decided to go to Ladakh in that period… where do you think could go around? and how many degrees below zero could I experience? Thanks so much Simone

Hello Simone,

In Ladakh, you can very well make a trip to almost all the places within Ladakh but you will have to fly by air to Leh and fly out of Leh. Of course, you will have to bear with cold conditions and limited stay + food options. You can refer the plan at: Leh – Ladakh in Winters – Most Common Itinerary

Planning to go in mid august with friends and bike trip in and from leh itself..? Is it recommendable to go during that time of rains..?

Abhi please read: 10 Tips for a Trip to Ladakh in Monsoons

Your article is quite informative. Thanks. It would be nice if you can help me plan up my trip to Lay-Ladakh . Myself and my wife ( mid 40) and twin daughters aged 16 planning to travel to Lay from Bangalore on 9th of October, because, that’s when children get holidays and would like to stay at lay-Ladhak till 16th of October. ( basically 5 day, stay in Lay) Can you please suggest the places that we can cover and suggest an itinerary for me. We plan to take up a flight from Bangalore to Delhi. and after that, I have absolutely no idea about the mode of transport or route i should take. Is it better to go on our own or take up a camp. if taking up a camp, which one is better? Hope, that’s not very expensive. Please suggest. Looking forward to your reply.

Warm Regards,

I will be in leh on 12th July till 20th July 2016.

I have some questions in mind so could you please suggest me the best answer

In which place shall I stay in Leh?

Also, where shall I get good accommodation like tent or home stay?

In which place shall visit during the period i.e. between 12th July to 20th July 2016?

Also, it would be better if you suggest me the place where shall I get Bike on rent?

On 22nd July, I have trained from Jammu so is there any public transport or anything else through which I can go from Leh to Jammu via Kargil?

Apart from that you can suggest me better plan.

Awaiting for your prompt reply.

Hello Ashish,

I can answer you better if you tell me how are you reaching Leh on 12th July, I see you will travel by road to Jammu from Leh on 20th

Thank You Dheeraj for the replying . I will be reaching Leh by plane

Hi Dheeraj, I am planning to do circuit from Chandigarh – Srinagar – Leh – Manali – Chandigarh. Dates are 2 nd august to 13 august.

1. What is your opinion above dates of travel? 2. Will it be good for bike riding? 3. As heard of uttarakhand cloud burst.. So any chances of consequences? (I can understand it cannot be assured right now… but still if you have any predictions.)

Hi Swapnil,

You should read: 10 Tips for a Trip to Ladakh in Monsoons which will answer many of your doubts.

I am planing to travel Leh-Ladakh…we are 6 people…we will be traveling to and fro Leh airport from mumbai… But we are very much confused about the dates.. Please suggest Aug 26th to 4th Sep Sep 2nd to 11th Any 1..thou there isn’t much difference in the date…we are preferring Sep…but jz rains may spoil the trip so need your guidance

September will be a better time to do so.

I am from Bangalore and planning to do a solo trip on a budget in the month of August 2016. I have planned out a small itinerary, would love to have your opinion regarding the same. Day 1 : Bangalore to Delhi by flight Day 2 : Delhi to Manali by Volvo bus Day 3 & 4 : Manali to Leh by bus with overnight stay at Sarchu Day 5 : Local sightseeing/Rest Day 6 : Hire a bike in Leh for the rest of the trip. Sham Valley Day 7 : Leh to Nubra valley. Overnight stay at Hunder. Day 8 : Nubra valley to Leh Day 9 : Leh to Pangong Tso. Overnight stay at Spangmik. Day 10 : Pangong Tso to Leh. Day 11 : Leh to Delhi by flight. Delhi to Bangalore by flight.

Let me know what you think of this.

Hi Dheeraj, I am planning to travel to Leh-Ladakh in first week of October 2016 with hubby and 8 year old daughter. Please help me with below questions,

1. Is this time of the year OK for travel ? (considering kid in mind)Will it be too cold ? 2. Planning for self drive from Manali to Leh and then back from Leh by flight. 3. Is it good for traveling around Leh ? Weather conditions ? 4. Is it OK to travel by road with the kid ?

Thanks Ashwini

Hi Ashwini,

1. No, time is not OK most of the camps are winded up and it gets cold in high places in Ladakh 2. Manali – Leh is not recommended at all in October and especially with kids, will not suggest taking risks, even though now a days it is slightest. 3. Cold mostly.

We are following for advice to driver via Srinagar to Leh. But question are we allowed to driver a hire tempo traveller from punjab via Srinagar to Leh. And for local ladakh sight seeing via taxi.

No, ladakh sightseeing you need local ladakh tempo travller

Yes Dheeraj. I’m aware about the local sightseeing must be done via their local transport. But reaching Leh on our own hire vehicle(Tempo traveller) from punjab – are we allowed that via srinagar.

Or we need to take the tempo from srinagar itself.

We are planning our journey as below from 14th Jul to 25th Jul.

Day 1 – Delhi to Srinagar (flight) Day 2 – Srinagar to Pahalgam to Srinagar Day 3 – Srinagar to Gulmarg to Srinagar Day 4 – Srinagar to Kargil (Via Sonamarg and Dras) Day 5 – Srinagar to Leh Day 6 – Leh (Tour of Local Monasteries) Day 7 – Leh to Nubra Lake Day 8 – Nubra Lake to Leh Day 9 – Leh to Panggong Lake and Back to Leh Day 10 – Leh to Kelyong Day 11 – Kelyong to Manali Day 12 – Manali to Chandigarh

1. Need your advice on the plan – is it ok ? 2. Taking tempo traveler from punjab (For day 2 to 5 and 10,11, 12) 3. For local sighting seeing will take the local transport in leh (For day 6,7,8,9)

Regards, Karen Sandhu

1. Your plan looks OK to me. 2. Sounds good, local sightseeing you need local tempo traveller

Yes, Karen. you are fine to reach Leh in outside taxi or rented vehicle.

Hi, please give me update infomation for bus service timing from Leh to srinagar nowdays (Days and timing) and also tell me bus service or taxi in Low budget for visit Pangong Lake,Tso morriri , Nubra valley, khardungla top etc.

Please refer: Rates & Time table of Bus Services in Leh – Ladakh

I am planning a trip to Ladhak from 6th Aug to 17th Aug. A brief itinerary is as follows

Day 1st Pune – Srinagar airport – Local Trip Day 2nd Srinagar – Gulmarg– Srinagar Day 3rd Srinagar – Sonamarg – Kargil – Lamayuru ( We would prefer staying at Lamayuru instead of Kargil. Is this feasible? Day 4th – Lamayuru – Leh Day 5th Tour of Local Monasteries Day 6th Leh – Pangong Lake Day 7th Pangong – Leh – Khardungla – Nubra Valley Day 8th Back to leh Day 9th leh – Sarchu Here can we cover morey plains? Day 10th Sarchu – manali Day 11th Manali local sightseeing Day 12th Manali – Chandigarh Airport Drop

1. Any comments/suggestions on the itinerary? 2. Can we hire open jeep/mahindra thar in leh? If yes, can you share some relevant contacts?Chauffeur driven would also do. 3. You have already mentioned details about the weather conditions in the first week of August, but as we wont be riding on bikes, how much difficulties we might face? 4. How much it would cost approximately for the above itinerary considering we are 4 adults travelling.

1. Changes suggested below 2. No self drive option available in Leh, you can hire taxi there 3. Well, below Ladakh range, there will be rains which will have swollen water crossings, slush on roads, landlsides will be common too 4.

Day 1st Pune – Srinagar airport – Local Trip Day 2nd Srinagar – Gulmarg– Srinagar Day 3rd Srinagar – Sonamarg – Kargil Day 4th – Kargil – Leh Day 5th Tour of Local Monasteries Day 6th Leh – Nubra Valley Day 7th Back to Leh Day 8th Day trip to Pangong Tso or go to Sarchu/Pang from Panogng Tso next day Day 9th Sarchu/Pang Day 10th Sarchu/Pang – manali Day 11th Manali local sightseeing Day 12th Manali – Chandigarh Airport Drop

Thanks for the reply Dheeraj. Need clarification on below two points:

1. Regarding water crossings and slush on roads, how much does it affect while travelling in a four wheeler(we are not riding on bikes)?

2. Regarding open jeep/mahindra thar – We dont need a self drive vehicle. A car with driver will do. But the main requirement is we need an Open Jeep. So would be great if you can share some relevant contacts.

Hi, I am planning to visit leh on 2 Oct 2016 with my wife for around 10 to 11 days. I will fly from pune to leh. Then will book hotel there and take bike of rent i will visit different place there. So i have some question below: 1. How easily we can get hotel there with affordable rate during given time frame? 2.I will be traveling different place on bike with my wife , my wife don’t ride bike so is it possible to visit place like Chang La Pass,Taglang La Pass,Khardung La Pass,Tso Kar Lake,Pangong Tso Lake etc. in 7-8 days time frame. 3. Is it safe to travel in leh alone with wife ?

Thanks in advance. Rahul

Rahul in October it is off seaosn in Ladakh and cold too. Most of the camps besides the Pangong Tso lake gets packed up and most hotels/restaurant in Leh gets closed.

Hello, sir I want to know about Local bus service around leh Ladakh Local sightseenig is available on nowdays july 2016.plz Reply

No there is no local bus service in Leh for sightseeing purposes. Local tour operators might be running some taxis for the same.

I am planning to travel Srinagar-Leh-Manali with my mom. The trip would be for around 10-12 days and wil include Sonmarg, Dras, Kargil, Lamayuru, Leh, Nubra, Pangong, Sarchu, Rohtang and finally Manali. Which would be the best time to travel July end (around 27 July.) or mid September (around 20 Sep.)? How are the road conditions during the given period? Any suggestions or must visit places are welcomed!

Mid septembers is a good time to travel Ladakh, always. You can check a very balanced and most common itinerary for Leh – Ladakh followed by many travellers including me at the link here for 13-14 days: Most Common Itinerary for Leh – Ladakh .

Thanks for the deails.I have planned somewhat similar itinerary. The only difference is we will finishing the tour at Chandigarh. How is the weather during the September end (20-30 September)? Are there any chances of rain or snow fall? Does temperature dip ver much at night or high passes? Can you please mention some advantages of visiting Leh in September over July or any points which are best to visit in September? How much time does it take to reach Chandigarh from Manali as the last flight from Chandigarh is at 7 pm. ? Thank You!

Very little rain or snowfall may happen during that period. Regarding points, please read the article above. Chandigarh – Manali is around 9 Hrs

We have planned to ride Leh in September starting from 16 -Sep to 1st-Oct. We are 6 riders on our own starting from Jammu- srinagar-leh-manali-Chandigarh My main concern is the weather, road conditions & stay in last 2 weeks of September. My question are : 1: Is riding during this time safe( like landslide & rains) ? 2: is this the good time for the road trip ? 3: What about the camp stay in pangong? will that be open ? 4: Can we setup our own tent ? (with proper Sleeping bag n all) 5: Will there be snow ? 6: What about the land slide & rain in last two week of September ? Will we face that ?

Thanks in Advance

Regards. Bharat V

Hello Bharat,

1. YEs, time is good to travel, in fact best time to travel to Ladakh 3. Yes, there will be options available 4. Yes you can setup your own camps where other camps are pitched. DO NOT pitch at banks of the lake as it is not authorized and leagal to camp besides the lake. 5. In case it snows the day you visit. 6. Usually things are stable in September

I’m Bhoomik From Chennai

What are the places would u suggest to visit if i would like to cover Nook and corner of leh ladakh and near by and how many days will it take. Please suggest Me everything.

All depends upon how many days you have in hand and your mode of transport

Can Padum and Zanskar valley be travelled in third week of October??

I will not suggest it because the winter sets in by end of September and Penzi La can close for few days in case of heavy snowfall.

I am planning to travel ladakh in mid of june, and I want to visit Zanskar, I’ll follow your suggested common itinerary for this trip. So is it possible to cover Zansakar in this itinerary and if yes, can u please share me the travel guide to cover the same or any other possibilities.

Thanking you.

Zanskar Valley needs at least 4 days on confortable level ex. Kargil. Do you have 4 more days in hand?

Hello sir, I have planned for visit to Ladakh during 18june to 24 june .Is it the best time to visit .plz Reply

It is good time to visit Ladakh Raj

You are doing an excellent job. I would like to thank you sincerely for it. I have a query that I want to travel with my husband to Leh from 2 sep to 8sep 2016. But I am bit afraid as I have read that weather in leh keeps changing drastically and at that time it would be monsoon so lot of thunderstorm. I was going to follow your iteneary for this short trip of 6 nights stay. Could you please guide me and clear my mind, Is September a good month to travel? I am planning to viist Nubra & Panong Tso and stay 1 night at each place. If we get stuck at somepoint, Is help available? I know probably I am worrying too much but I woul dbe very thankful to you if you can throw some lights on my query. Thanking you

If you are flying in and flying out of Leh, there is no issues at all during that time. Ladakh is a rain shadow region and September is a good time to travel

Thank you Dheeraj for your prompt reply. Any extra precaution to be taken care of during the visit?

Hmm, well, do read 9 Mistakes People Commit on a Ladakh Trip AND Acute Mountain Sickness and Importance of Acclimatization

HI Dheeraj, Me and my wife wish to travel in the second week of August. Do you recommend that time for travel? its her birthday so don’t want to mess it up 🙂

It is monsoon time in general up there in North and at some parts of Manali – Leh Highway (like before Baralacha La) and Srinagar – Leh Highway (like before Kargil) you might need to face monsoon hassles but once you get closer to Ladakh, then Ladakh being rain shadow region is least affected by monsoon rains, though rains does reach Ladakh now but to minimum and mostly it might remains overcast conditions. There is no thumb rule of certainty about weather conditions but above is generally common pictures seen over last few years except ugly 2010 …

Please refer the link in our community: FAQ | Is Monsoon season good time to travel to Ladakh? for more details.

Hi Dheeraj. We are 4 persons all adults of a family two gents and two ladies plan to visit zhanskar valley from Jalandhar. Pl suggest best itenry We have a total of 7-8 days from 11 June We will be going in Pajero sports 4by4

Harish, I always suggest: Zanskar Valley – Most Common Itinerary

I am planning to visit ladakh in September so can we find snow at that time of period

Snow will not be present in the month of September in Ladakh unless it snowfall on that very day when you are there

hi Dheeraj.

Your posts are so so awesome.

I need your advice on our road trip plan. We are a group of 8 friends, 25-35 yrs old males & females, planning for Delhi-Leh-Delhi by our own two cars. I am keen to have your advice on the following:- 1. Are Maruti Swift diesels recommended for this trip? 2. Except me, all other 7 friends are first timers for Ladakh trip but all of them have done lot of self driven road trips in north india, so is it advisable for us to go to ladakh during Jun-July or Aug-Sep?

your valuable insights will be highly helpful for all of us. Thanks.

hello Dheeraj,

I will be travelling to Leh Ladakh during 1st october to 12th october on my Santro. Is it doable on a Santro? i will self drive and travel with my wife and son. Please advice.I will be going via Srinagar.

Thanks for setting up all the information in one place. I have planned trip to LEH during September. Travel plan is for ~22 days, in that I would like to cover kargil/leh/manali/delhi[in and around places ]/Agra and then I would ride back to Bangalore. Here’s what I have planned, please help me to head in right direction and plan better.

TRIP START DATE: SEP 02 2016 [ Friday night ] END DATE: SEP 25 2016 [ Saturday ]

Sep 2nd [ night ]:- I will be getting my bike [ Apache 180 ] from Bangalore via train and reach Delhi on Sunday 04 Sep 04 : Will head to Pathankot . [ THAT’s ALL ] After going through all the places suggested by you for other travelers, I had made a rough plan on where to visit. But then I would like to hear it out from the right person rather than going with one of mine.

Looking forward for advice to plan things even better.

This is from Delhi to Delhi, now depending upon days left in 22 days with you, you can try to spend more time at places example go to Turtuk in Nubra Valley, take three day journey over Manali – leh Highway

U r just amazing!!!

I have planned a family trip to Leh – Ladakh during 10 Oct to 16 Oct 2016. It will be a 12 member group with age ranging from 7 years to 65 years. Will be reaching Leh by flight from Delhi and return on 16 morning by flight. The flight tickets are already booked. I have the the following questions: 1. Will it be appropriate to travel with such age group? (Keeping in view the temperature and terrain) 2. Suggest me the places to visit as I have not yet planned the itinerary. 3. Suggest me suitable hotels/ camps/ homestay for your suggested itinerary. 4. What is the minimum temperature expected during our visit?

Needless to say, it will be quite cold up there in Ladakh especially at places like Pangong Tso. You do not have much time on hand so can follow the first 6-7 days of itinerary in: Leh – Ladakh | Most Common Itinerary by Air

Hi dheeraj I read all your post for leh ladak i was very impress I would like to take three days journey on Srinagar – leh highway I would like to use alternate route which goes Kargil ,Batalik ,Dah,Skurbuchan My back journey is leh to manali iwould like to go to spiti valley too Can you set my iternary and which is the best season to visit and how many days should I keep no time limite I

Hello Sonali,

You can follow th below plan:

Day 1 | Delhi – Jammu / Patnitop — Overnight at Jammu or Patnitop

Day 2 | Jammu / Patnitop – Srinagar — Enjoy walk around Dal lake and may be Shikara ride as well — If you have time then check out, floating market, Shalimar Garden. — Overnight at Srinagar

Day 3 | Srinagar – Zozi La – Drass – Kargil — Enjoy the vistas enroute — Have late drunch meal at Drass is you are a vegetarian as sometimes it gets difficult to find veg. food at Kargil — Overnight at Kargil

Day 4 | Kargil – Lamayuru – Leh — Cover Mulbekh Maitrey, Lamayuru Moanstery, Lunar Landscapes — On the way you can also see Gurudwara Pather Sahib, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu — Overnight at Leh

Day 5 | Leh Local Sightseeing + Inner Line Permits — To know the about the places to visit check the link: Travel Guide for Local Sightseeing of Leh Town in Ladakh — For more details on inner line permits process and to download application form read the link  here — Overnight at Leh

Day 6 | Leh – Khardung La – Diskit – Hunder — Head for Nubra Valley and stay overnight at Hunder — On the way enjoy a cup of soup at Highest Motorable Pass (as claimed) Khardung La

Day 7 | Hunder – Sumur/Kyagar – Panamik – Sumur – Khardung La – Leh — Sumur has a famous monastery to check out and Panamik has hot water springs — Overnight at Leh

Day 8 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour — Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only. — Overnight at Leh

Day 9 | Leh – Hemis Monastery – Pangong Tso Lake — Cover either of Hemis, Thicksey and Shey on the go towards Pangong Tso — Overnight at Pangong Tso (Spangmik)

Day 10 | Pangong Tso Lake – Shey – Thicksey – Leh — Overnight at Leh

Day 11 | Rest day at Leh to enjoy local culture and some shopping OR Monastery tour OR you can do tour to Sham Valley — Monastery tour may include Hemis, Thicksey, Stakna and Shey monasteries. They come on the route of Pangong Tso but as you will be doing day trip, it will be a bit hectic to include them on that day only. — Sham Valley include Alchi, Likir, Basgo Palace, Magnetic Hills, Confluence at Nimmu, , Gurudwara Pather Sahib — Overnight at Leh

Day 12 | Leh – Tso Moriri via Chumathang — Cover Karzok Monastery — Overnight at Karzok or Tso Moriri

Day 13 | Tso Moriri – Tso Kar – Debring (Manali – Leh Highway starts) – Moore Plains – Pang / Sarchu — Try to start early in the day so that you reach Sarchu where the accommodation options are better than Pang — Overnight at Sarchu or Pang

Day 14 | Pang / Sarchu – Baralacha La – Jispa — On the way cover Suraj Tal, Deepak Tal which are on the road sides only — Overnight at Jispa

Day 15 | Jispa – Chandratal Day 16 | Chandratal – Kaza on the way (Ki, Kibber, Gette) Day 17 | Kaza/Langza Homestay (Hikkim, Koumik, Langza) Day 18 | Kaza – Pin Valley – Dhankar – Tabo Day 19 | Tabo – Kalpa Day 20 | Kalpa – Narkanda Day 21 | Narkanda – Chail / Shimla – Delhi

Add a day from Kargil to travel to Dah – Hanu villages and next day traveling to Leh from Dah – Hanu or Alchi wherever you take the night halt.

Hi dheeraj,

Your blog is amazing and definately a bible for ppl who want to travel to ladakh..i’m planning for 11 day trip to leh ladakh starting from either 3rd sept to 13sept or 9th sept to 19th sept. Can you please suggest me a gud detailed itinerary and also which dates would be best. Im from chennai and would prefer taking flight from chennai to leh and back..also can u suggest me whr all can i rent bikes.i would wanna drive a bike around for the experience and thrill of it..would like to do some camping as well.. Thanks in advance Regards, Neelam

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Best Time To Visit Leh Ladakh

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What is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh?

The best time to visit Leh Ladakh is from late April to mid-July, when both the Srinagar Leh highway and Leh-Manali highway are open, allowing for easy access to the region. This period also offers the opportunity to witness the breathtaking snow-capped landscapes, especially along the Leh-Manali highway. Another favorable time to visit is from mid-September to October when Ladakh is at its most beautiful, and visitors can enjoy discounts due to fewer tourists. However, it's advisable to avoid traveling to Leh Ladakh during the monsoon season from late July to August due to the risk of landslides. During this time, the roads, particularly the Srinagar Leh highway and Leh Manali highway, are often covered in sludge, making travel hazardous. Peak Season: The peak tourist season in Leh Ladakh is from April to mid-July, attracting a significant number of visitors eager to explore the region's stunning landscapes and cultural heritage. During this time, the weather is favorable, and the roads leading to Ladakh are open, making it an ideal time for adventure enthusiasts and sightseers alike. Shoulder Season : September to October marks the shoulder season in Leh Ladakh when the region is still accessible, and the weather remains pleasant. This period offers a quieter and more serene experience compared to the peak season, with fewer tourists and discounted rates available for accommodations and activities. Off Season: The off-season in Leh Ladakh falls from November to March, as well as July and August. During these months, the region experiences harsh weather conditions, with extreme cold temperatures and the risk of road closures due to snowfall. Additionally, July and August are prone to monsoon rains, leading to landslides and making travel challenging and risky. As a result, visitor numbers decrease significantly during the off-season, and many establishments may close temporarily.

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Ankita Poddar

Leh Ladakh in September – 11 Reasons to Travel

I don’t know what paradise looks like, but if Leh Ladakh is called paradise on Earth , then I want to be born and die every day. 

Leh Ladakh in September is the best time of the year to enjoy the extremely surreal environment and pristine beauty. 

You would ask me then why June is considered the peak time. Undoubtedly, the summer season is the best time to witness melting snow and gorgeous views.

You can explore the hidden gems of Ladakh too. But the Ladakh trip in September is the best. Let me explain why.

To taste the true paradisiacal beauty of Ladakh, empty roads, fewer tourists, and a picturesque green oasis everything – on budget, is only possible in September.

Leh Ladakh in September end looks all green, yellow, and slowly turning into white.

My mother says snowflakes are butterflies of winter. I agree because she is not wrong. By the end of October, Ladakh slowly closes down to tourists.

Moreover, what makes Leh Ladakh in September special is fresh cotton soft snowflakes falling from the skies and slowly turning the black roads into white. Can you imagine that?

I have a guide that describes how beautiful September morning in Ladakh can be and narrates some places which have their own set of charms and offerings. 

So, grab a coffee, because this blog is the ultimate guide for Leh Ladakh in September .

Read: 9 Safe Places to Travel in India  

Is September a good time to visit Leh and Ladakh?

Leh in September gets into a solitary avatar that makes it perfect to sit with a steaming cup of masala tea and enjoy the sweet cold with the Himalayas at the backdrop.

I reached Leh on 23rd September 2022, believe me, there was almost no crowd and no rush on the road. 

Starting from flights, cabs, and cafes to vehicles you get hefty discounts on everything. Often this discount runs as good as 40% off!

To my delight, I got a hotel that’s next to the Leh market with an amazing view of Leh Palace at just Rupees 1200. Normally, they charge 1700 Rupees for the same room. 

September is the transitional period from dry summer to winter, making the blue lakes crystal clear. The entire aura of Ladakh changes to paradise.

Leh Ladakh in September won’t be chilling. You won’t regret rejuvenating in the warm morning sun, enjoying food in the Himalayan café at the Leh market, and enjoying it.

Sitting by the café’s window and watching the Ladaki women weaving woolen socks, sweaters, and other shops selling apples and apricots is just the best feeling. 

Winter is coming!  Do not forget to shop for winter-wollen clothes they are making.

Ladakh in September has fewer tourists which reduce the price of hotels, and food. This makes Leh Ladakh more affordable. 

Also, the roads are empty making it perfect for Leh Ladakh bike trips, rock climbing, trekking, camping, and cycling.

Read: How Much Does a Trip to Andaman Cost – Cost for Andaman Trip

Will there be snow in Leh in September?

No, you won’t get snow in Leh in September. But, if you are lucky, then you can witness snowfall at higher altitudes during your Ladakh trip in September.

By mid-September, if you travel close to higher altitude passes like Chang La, and Khardung La, then you might experience snowflakes that turn to snowfall.

During my visit to Leh Ladakh in September (23rd September 2022), I saw no snow in the proper town. However, on the way to Pangong and Tso Morir, I received little rainfall.

And, on 30th September on the way to Khardung La, I saw snowfall. Slowly it covered the whole place white leading to snow storms later. 

Because of the heavy snowfall, my trip to Nubra trip got canceled. It was a bike trip and riding on snow was life-threatening. 

The front wheel was slipping sideways resulting in disbalance and fall off! Yes, nothing really happened to me, but riding in the snow was adventurous and invigorating.

During the same time, in Leh, the weather was moderate with little rainfall. The day temperature was 17 degree Celsius, while at night it fell to 3 degrees Celsius.

However, on the way it was little and we thought we could easily pass but by the time we reached Khardung La, it was a heavy snowstorm. 

You will find a café beside the pass, where I waited for more than four hours and decided to call off our plan to Nubra and return back to Leh. 

The café person told me that the snowfall in Leh in September is completely lucky.

Read: 7 Days the Ultimate Meghalaya Trip Plan – Offbeat Meghalaya

Is Leh closed in September?

No, Leh is not closed in September. Moreover, Ladakh in September is a pleasant time as roads are in good shape, and empty, and you enjoy everything at discounts.

Leh Ladakh in September is completely functional, starting from hotels, homestays, cafes, car rentals, bike rentals and shopping centers everything is open. 

Furthermore, places listed below in Leh are also open in September – 

(I) Around Leh city

(II) Suru Valley, 

(III) Manali Leh Highway, 

(IV) Srinagar Leh Highway, 

(V) All Nubra Valley, 

(VI) Pangong Tso, 

(VII) Changthang Valley, 

(VIII) Leh to Tso Moriri, 

(VIIII) Leh to Batalik, 

(IX) Tangier trek, 

(X) Agham Shyok Route, 

(XI) Wari La Route,

(XII) Umling La, 

(XIII) Salsal La, 

(XIV) Chumur Route, 

(XV) Marsimik La

(XVI) Phobrang, 

(XVII) Ukdungle.

I rent a brand new scram 411 Royal Enfield bike at only Rupees 1700 per day (24th September 2022 – 1st October 2022). 

However, on season time you need to pay 2200 Rupees per day for the same. Therefore, to the question of whether Ladakh is open in September, the answer is yes.

During September, the weather is perfect and the lush green hills look so spectacular. You will get small water crossings too on the way.

In late September, you can witness snowfall. However, once the sun is up everything melts down. Additionally, you can be part of the biggest Ladakh festival, impressive dance performances, and so more.

Read: What to Pack for Andaman Trip?

Is it cold in Leh in September?

Leh in September is not very cold, one warm jacket, earmuffs, waterproof shoes, raincoat, and winter skin care items will be good to go for the month of September.

Around Leh, the day temperature will be around 17 degree Celsius to 22 degree Celsius. The sun is quite strong but the cold makes the sun feel so good on the skin.

At night, the temperature can drop to 3 degrees Celsius. However, because of altitude and less oxygen, the fast walking will result in puffing and tiredness.

I will advise you to carry woolen and waterproof clothes to protect yourself from the cold. If you are traveling to high-altitude passes, you might witness snowfall.

During my visit in 2022, I received harsh sun, rainfall, and snowfall. So, make sure you are carrying sunscreen, a waterproof jacket, socks, and shoes. 

Moreover, apart from a higher pass or during snowfall, there won’t be a minus temperature in Leh in September. 

Therefore, to the popular question, how cold is Ladakh in September, the answer is a little bit cold. You should carry your thermals, fleece, and jackets.

Read: How to Travel Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

Does it rain in Leh in September?

Also, does it rain heavily in Leh?

Yes, you will get either light or heavy rainfall in Leh in September. However, September is considered a dry season but get ready for some rain and snowfall.

During my visit to Leh, from 23rd September 2022 – 4th October 2022, I saw a clear sky, clouds, rain, snowflakes, and snow storms.

Leh was mostly sunny but for three days it rained very lightly. On the other hand, in Pangong Tso, it rained heavily. In Khardung La, I witnessed a snowstorm.

In Hanle, I saw starry nights which were glowing and twinkling. You will be amazed by its beauty. With clear skies, twinkling stars, and complete silence, Hanle is just amazing.

Therefore, Leh Ladakh in September is a box of surprises filled with unexpected events, memories, and feelings. 

During your Ladakh trip in September, you will witness snowfall, rain, harsh sun rays, and also chilled wind. 

Just carry your waterproof pieces of stuff and woolen clothes.

Read: 10 Best Places to Visit in Kolkata with Friends

Is Manali Leh highway open in September?

Yes, NH – 003 which is properly known as the Manali-Leh highway is open in September. It’s only in October the roads become risky due to heavy snowfall and it closes down.

However, because of heavy snowfall at Baralacha La Pass, at 4,850 meters the police can close the roads. Therefore, it is highly recommended to check before planning.

While driving from Manali to Ladakh, you will come across five passes where a light shower or snowfall is possible. 

Don’t forget to get lost at More Valley.

Read: The Guide: How to Travel with Dog in Train in India?

Which month is best for the Leh Ladakh car trip?

September is the best time for the Leh Ladakh car trip because comparatively there are fewer tourists and fixing of broken roads are done by now.

The best part is you get those empty roads that you always dreamt about on your Ladakh trip. It is so easy to navigate, park at the side and enjoy the pristine nature.

Additionally, September is the best time for the Leh Ladakh car trip because you can rent a car and other utilities at a minimum 25% discount. 

For example, one of my friends rented a Sedan for Rupees 2000 per day during a Ladakh trip in September. Normally, they charge Rupees 3000 per day.

However, always rent a car from the best car Rental Company and know their return policies before renting. The car should not be more than 18 years old.

You should have valid IDs and driving licenses.

Read: The Ultimate Guide- How To Travel Alone In India?

What should I pack for Leh in September?

Leh Ladakh in September can be chilling, hence carrying thermals, woolen sweaters, jackets, neck warmers, hand gloves, waterproof socks, and waterproof shoes. 

Other than that, carry an umbrella, raincoat, and rain cover for your backpack. Apart from clothes, bring sunscreen and winter moisturizer for your body and face.

I hope you do not want chap – chap broken lips so carry lip moisturizer. Carry the inner permits, aadhar card, driving license, and important documents.

Also, bring ORS, medicines, and eco-friendly water bottles. You should have a packing list for the Leh Ladakh trip.

Therefore, I hope now you know which type of clothes to wear in Ladakh.

Read: 5, Best Places for Solo Female Travel in India –

Is Pangong Lake Open in September?

Yes, Pangong Lake is open in September. The lake looks magical during this time of the year. 

The sun, sky, and the dramatic look of nature make Pangong a must-visit destination in Leh Ladakh. You will be amazed to see the reflection of sunlight playing with the mountains.

However, to the popular question is Pangong frozen in September, the answer is no.  From November, Pangong starts freezing when the temperature falls from -5 degrees to -10 degrees Celsius. 

Read: Your Ultimate Guide: How To Plan Goa Trip For 3 Days?

How can I get an inner line permit in Ladakh?

Book your permits beforehand from the “Leh District Permit Tracking System ” website. The Inner Line Permit is the most important travel document for the Leh Ladakh trip.

After visiting the website, register yourself and select your routes and mention the dates. Moreover, for the entire Leh Ladakh, there are 13 circuit names and passes. 

You should take permits only to the places you want to visit. Ensure, you provide the right ID number, dates, and other required areas.

The permits are issued by the Government of India. For Indians, the permit is valid for three weeks whereas for one week for foreigners.

Read: 10 Best Places to Visit Near Kolkata for the Weekend

Leh Ladakh Festivals In September

From the Naropa festival, and Cham Mask Dance festival, to the Ladakh festival, Leh Ladakh in September brings people of all races together to celebrate all the rituals.

Leh Ladakh Festivals in September continue for days with a regular celebration in different villages and monasteries including mask dance, archery, musical concerts, and polo.

I was so amazed to find out how the people of Leh Ladakh do not complain about their life, but rather strongly appreciate life and hold on to their roots! 

In 2021, one of my friends stayed a month in Leh Ladakh. He told me a lot about the festivals in Leh Ladakh in September. 

Picture courtesy: swantour

Festivals in Leh Ladakh mostly embrace Mother Nature. From 16th September to 20th September Ladakh celebrates its Buddhist legacy.

However, I missed the Naropa Festival that was held in Hemis Monastery. It is one of the biggest Buddhist monasteries in Leh Ladakh.

Second, the Cham Dance, the beautiful folk dance wearing vibrantly masked and religious costumes is a must-attend festival in Leh Ladakh in September.

The traditional Cham Mask Dance festival has roots in Buddhism and Tantric mystic art. You should attend the Cham dance festival at Chokhang Vihara Temple.

Lastly, the Ladakh festival scheduled in mid-September from 20th September – 23rd September is another beautiful Leh Ladakh festival in September.

The festival portrays North Indian, Tibetan, and Central Asia culture in a festival ambiance of sports bringing joy to people. This was held in the Leh main market.

Read: A Complete: North Kolkata Durga Puja Guide Map – 2022

Places to visit in Leh Ladakh in September

The entire Leh Ladakh is open in September. 

The best part of the Leh Ladakh trip is the thrilling journey across Himalayan land and unrealistic panorama more than reaching a destination. 

If you are in search of unexplored and offbeat places to visit in Leh Ladakh in September then I have a separate blog post for that.

Here, I am suggesting only a common itinerary for places to visit in Leh Ladakh in September. No matter how you plan your trip, always start your day early in the morning.

• Day 01 -02: Arrival in Leh, spend the first day in a hotel taking rest and having healthy food. On the second day, visit Leh Palace and explore the Leh Market
• Day 03 – 04: Leh to Hunder to Turtuk to Panamik. Stay in lower Turtuk for a budget-friendly homestay. 
• Day 05- 06: Turtuk to Pangong via Shyok to Umling La
• Day 07: Pangong to Tso Morir
• Day 08: Tso Morrir to Hanle
• Day 9: Hanle to Leh
• Day 10: Spend the day in Leh or go to Stok

However, you can make moderation as per your health, wealth, and importantly the number of days. 

Moreover, the weather in September can be very unpredictable. Therefore, sometimes you might have to change your plan on the spot. 

It happened to us on the way to Nubra Valley, as snowfall started and we came back to Leh and decided to visit the Aryan Village.

Always keep a separate budget for such conditions and a buffer time between your trips to cover up for all delays.

Read: 7 Best Places to Visit Near Kolkata Within 100 Kms

How much does the Ladakh trip cost? In September

What is the average cost of a Ladakh trip? 

How much will a trip to Ladakh cost?

These are the first questions that come to your mind after you plan for the Leh Ladakh trip. I will break down the average cost of the Ladakh trip in September to plan better.

Transportation from Kolkata to Leh and Leh to Kolkata in September: 

How much does it cost to go to Ladakh from Kolkata?

Via flights, the cost will be 10 – 11 Thousand Rupees one way, therefore two ways it will be nearlyly about 22,000 Rupees.  

However, via train , the cost can be reduced. Take a train from Kolkata to Delhi for 1,700, stay in Delhi for one night, and take an early morning flight to Leh for just 2,700 Rupees. 

Total, including stays and both way flights and train the cost will be 12,000 Rupees only. 

Transportation in Leh – Bike

During my Leh Ladakh trip in September, I rented scram 411 Royal Enfield for Rupees 1,700 per day with petrol at my cost. 

If you are taking the bike for 7 days then, the cost will be Rupees 11, 900. And, I spend 9000 Rupees on petrol. 

Therefore, transportation in Leh by bike for 7 days will be Rupees 20,900

Budget hotels in Leh

I stayed in Palace View at Rupees 1200 per day. The rooms come with big windows and a balcony from where you get a close view of Leh Palace. 

Normally, these rooms are available at Rupees 1700 per day but we just got for Rupees 1200. This is the best part of traveling Leh Ladakh in September. 

DISCOUNT ON EVERYTHING! 

You can also choose to stay at the Woosah hostel or the Himalayan bunker in Leh . Staying at the hostel is around Rupees 400 to 500 per day in dorms.

Apart from hotels in Leh, hotels in Nubra, Pangong, Hanle, Tso Morir, and Karzok will cost you around Rupees 1000 – 1200 per day. 

Therefore, hotel cost in total for 7 days will be around Rupees 5000 – 7000

Food in Leh

The food cost in Leh in September would be around a minimum of Rupees 2000 – 3000 , only, if you decide to eat in cafes. Apart from that food costs in Leh are very negligible. 

For example, in Hanle, I paid Rupees 1000 per day which includes a meal for 2 times (breakfast and dinner) and the accommodation cost. 

Isn’t it cheap?

Picture courtesy: responsibletourismindia

The best part is most of the homestays and hotels in Leh include food costs in hotel prices, therefore, you do not have to pay extra.  

Therefore, to the popular question, how much does it cost to go to Ladakh from Kolkata? The answer is Rupees 35,000- 41,000 for 10 days including flights, train, hotel, food, and bike . 

However, the cost can be reduced or increased depending on your travel appetite. 

For my Ladakh trip in September from Kolkata (23rd September 2022 – 2nd October 2022), I spent 38,000 Rupees. 

Read: 10 Unique Offbeat Instagrammable Places in Kolkata

Leh Ladakh in September is beautiful to the eye, but you need sturdy physical and mental health to enjoy it. 

There is a lack of oxygen, and harsh cold nights, with minimalistic lifestyles in villages. I would recommend not expecting luxury rather than a simple and minimal life.

Remember, you are traveling to the remote parts of Leh, where people survive with minimal requirements. You won’t get internet or any sort of luxury treatment.

On the last few days of my Ladakh trip, in Karzok (end of Tso Morir), I was getting cravings for Masala Kulcha and Chicken Bharta. But, what I got was Maggie, rice, daal, egg, and vegetables.

See, I am not frightening you, this is just a reminder. Before you embark on the trip, make sure you are mentally prepared for things that are outside your comfort zone.

Moreover, with all the above information, care, and caution, you will have a blast on your Ladakh trip in September.

Are you planning your next trip to Ladakh?

Let me know.

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The best time to visit Ladakh

By Arundhati Ail

The mesmerising landscapes of Ladakh have something to offer in every season, and when you plan your trip can make all the difference to your experience. Whether you’re looking to explore Leh, spot the snow leopard, trek through lush valleys or catch spring blossoms, a trip to Ladakh will require a fair bit of planning. Here are all the details you need on the best time to visit Ladakh.

Jump to: Best time to visit Ladakh Temperature in Ladakh When does it snow in Ladakh? Best time to spot snow leopards in Ladakh Cheapest time to visit Ladakh Busiest time to visit Ladakh How many days are enough for a Ladakh trip?

When is the best time to visit Ladakh?

The best time to visit Ladakh is in the summer. From April to mid-September temperatures are warmer and this is the peak season in Ladakh. The snow typically clears up by early April, and the Srinagar-Leh highway opens up for visitors. However, if you’re visiting between April and June, it’s best to fly in, as not all roads are fully functional during this time.

Summer is the best time to visit Leh, the Nubra Valley and high-altitude lakes like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, as temperatures are pleasant and roads are open. This is also the best time to visit Ladakh for treks like the Sham Valley trek and Markha trek. April is the apricot blossom season in Ladakh, and this is also a good time for birding and spotting wildflowers.

June to September is the best time to visit Ladakh for a road trip. The Manali road along Rohtang Pass opens up in June, and all the roads and passes in the region clear up by this time, making it the best time for bike trips in the region. Come winter , the lakes in Ladakh freeze over and are covered with a sheet of ice. The region receives heavy snowfall and the only way to reach is by air.

Temperatures through the year in Ladakh:

• Summer (April to July): 3°C-25°C
• Monsoon (July to September): 3°C-17°C
• Winter (October to March): -11°C-15°C

Ladakh lies in a rain shadow region and does not experience a heavy monsoon. While rainfall peaks in August, anticipate irregular showers even in the summer and winter.

When does it snow in Ladakh?

Snowfall in Ladakh typically begins in October, as temperatures drop and winter sets in, and can continue until late March. High-altitude passes like Khardung La can receive intermittent snow throughout the year. If you’re looking to visit for snow, it’s best to keep a watch on the weather forecast in the region for accurate updates.

When is the best time to spot snow leopards in Ladakh?

While winter in Ladakh is harsh, with minimum temperatures touching -11°C, it is also the best time to spot the elusive snow leopard. While November to April are best for snow leopard tours, Naturalist and guide Payal Mehta, who often leads snow leopard tours in Hemis National Park, advises against visiting during the bitter cold months from mid-December to late January. Winter tours are focussed on snow leopards, but Mehta also recommends looking out for smaller animals like the Himalayan wolf, red fox, bharal and urial, woolly hare, pika and more. Find a full guide to Hemis National Park here .

What is the cheapest time to visit Ladakh?

The harsh winter months make up the off season in Ladakh , which means hotel and flight prices are lowest during this time. It is not advisable to travel to Ladakh in peak winter (December to February). Heavy snowfall and extreme temperatures mean that several roads and passes are blocked or closed. While Leh Airport is operational throughout the year, flight diversions and cancellations are likely during this time.

When is the busiest time to visit Ladakh?

April to September is the peak tourist season in Ladakh, though road traffic tends to be at its highest between June and September when tourists opt to drive or bike to the region. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, visit between October and November or March to May.

How many days are enough for a Ladakh trip?

About 7-10 days are ideal for a trip to Ladakh, given the travel time and acclimatisation. Irrespective of when you visit, account for 2-3 days to acclimatise to the high altitude at your accommodation. Ladakh is at an altitude of 3,000m and skipping this step can lead to altitude sickness. If you plan a 7-10 day trip, you can have five or more days to explore the region once you have acclimated. Most treks in the region last 5-10 days, except the beginner-friendly Sham Valley Trek that lasts three days. Beyond wildlife and treks, there’s a lot the region has to offer, including beautiful homestays and luxury tents , a dark sky reserve for stargazing and delicious local food .

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Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh: Ideal Seasons for Your Journey

Planning a trip to Leh Ladakh but not sure when to go? The timing

Planning a trip to Leh Ladakh but not sure when to go? The timing of your journey to this picturesque destination can greatly influence your experience. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or a cultural explorer, Ladakh offers something special in every season. Let’s dive into the best time to visit Leh Ladakh and explore why each season is worth considering for your adventure.

Spring: March to May

As winter bids adieu, Ladakh awakens to the gentle embrace of spring. This season, spanning from March to May best season to visit Leh Ladakh offers a perfect blend of pleasant weather and blooming landscapes. The melting snow rejuvenates the valleys, painting them in vibrant hues. Spring is an excellent time to witness the breathtaking beauty of Ladakh’s flora and fauna. Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Leh Ladakh in spring:

Pristine Landscapes: Experience Ladakh draped in colorful blossoms as the apricot, almond, and cherry trees come to life.

Moderate Weather: Enjoy comfortable temperatures ranging from 7°C to 26°C, making outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing delightful.

Festive Vibes: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Ladakhi culture by participating in local festivals like Losar, celebrating the Ladakhi New Year.

Read Also:-  Why You Should Go on Expeditions?

Why visit now

Summer is considered to be one of the best seasons since it allows you to fully experience and take in the vibrant surroundings of the location. This time of year, the snow appears to have softened, creating breathtakingly beautiful scenery. There are some great developments as of late April. At this point, the Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri lakes start to rapidly melt, revealing the breathtaking scenery and color of the area. Right now, there are clear skies due to lovely weather conditions. You should now think about going to monasteries like Thiksey Monastery, Likir Monastery, Shey Monastery, and Stongdey Monastery.

Know before you visit

There isn’t any significant snowfall from April to mid-May, at which point the summer season gradually takes over. When planning a trip to Ladakh, travelers can look through a variety of web directories to find homestays, hotels, locations, and guesthouses. All passes and highways leading to the location are typically closed or restricted during this time, so if you intend to come, you need absolutely book a flight. Despite the fact that it is summer, the weather in Ladakh is not very warm or bright right now.

Since most of the routes are closed during the first seven to ten days of June, it is not recommended to travel to Ladakh at this time. Right now, flying is the best option if you want to visit Ladakh, thus if you want to travel, you must use this mode of transportation. The Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport is the main airport in the region for summer travel to this area. Additionally, travelers should be sure to visit the roadway that connects Srinagar and Leh in the middle of this period. At this time of year, this is the highway that is still accessible.

Read Also :-  Let’s Plan A Trip To Ladakh- Ladakh tour packages

The sun can be extremely severe here because to the thin atmosphere, therefore wear sunscreen and take other protective measures to avoid direct sunlight. Even in the beginning of the season, you should bring thick clothing because the evenings can turn quite chilly

Summer: June to August

Summer in Ladakh, from June to August, is synonymous with adventure and exploration. This season beckons travelers with its extended daylight hours and accessibility to remote regions. While temperatures might soar during the day, the crisp mountain air provides respite, making it an ideal time for outdoor adventures. Here’s why summer is the best season to go to Ladakh:

High Altitude Treks: Embark on thrilling treks to iconic destinations like Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley, which are accessible only during this time.

Cultural Immersion: Engage with local communities and gain insights into their unique way of life during village homestays and cultural tours.

Fascinating Wildlife: Spot rare species like the snow leopard and Tibetan wild ass in their natural habitat, adding a touch of wilderness to your journey.

Read Also:- Ladakh Food: Exploring Local Flavors and Culinary Traditions

Leh Ladakh temperature

Leh Ladakh experiences extreme temperatures due to its high-altitude desert climate. During winter, temperatures can plummet to as low as -30°C, while in summer, they can soar to around 25°C during the day. The temperature variation between day and night can be significant, so visitors should be prepared for chilly nights even during the summer months.

Leh Temperature Today

The weather in Leh, Ladakh is currently cold, with temperatures hovering around freezing point. Moderate snowfall is occurring, contributing to the chilly conditions. Travel to Leh during winter is restricted to flights, as roads and passes are closed off due to heavy snowfall

Autumn: September to November

As summer bids farewell, autumn paints Ladakh in a mesmerizing palette of gold and crimson. From September to November, the landscape undergoes a spectacular transformation, making it one of the best times to visit Ladakh. The clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and lesser crowds offer a tranquil setting for exploration. Here’s why autumn is the best time to visit Ladakh:

Spectacular Landscapes: Marvel at the surreal beauty of Ladakh’s landscape as the golden hues of autumn cast a spell on the rugged terrain.

Photography Paradise: Capture postcard-perfect moments against the backdrop of azure skies, barren mountains, and golden meadows.

Cultural Experiences: Engage in authentic cultural experiences like witnessing traditional Ladakhi dance performances and exploring ancient monasteries.

Winter: December to February

While winter blankets the rest of India, Ladakh transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a unique experience for intrepid travelers. From December to February, the region is enveloped in a serene silence, making it an offbeat yet enchanting time to visit. Here’s why winter is the best season to visit Leh Ladakh:

Frozen Landscapes: Witness the surreal beauty of frozen rivers, lakes, and waterfalls as Ladakh transforms into a pristine white paradise.

Chadar Trek: Embark on the ultimate adventure of traversing the frozen Zanskar River on the legendary Chadar Trek, a bucket-list experience for thrill-seekers.

Cultural Encounters: Experience the warmth of Ladakhi hospitality during winter festivals like Losar, celebrated with traditional rituals and festivities.

Know Before You Visit

Altitude: Ladakh’s high altitude can cause altitude sickness. It’s crucial to acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated to avoid health complications.

Permit Requirements: Certain areas in Ladakh, especially border regions, require permits for entry. Make sure to obtain the necessary permits in advance.

Environmental Responsibility: Respect Ladakh’s fragile ecosystem by minimizing plastic usage, preserving natural habitats, and practicing responsible tourism.

Read Also:- Understanding High Altitude Sickness in Leh Ladakh

Plan your journey wisely, and get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Leh Ladakh!

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

A: Ladakh is accessible by road from June to September. However, during winter, certain remote areas might be inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.

A: It’s essential to pack warm clothing, sturdy trekking gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and plenty of water, regardless of the season you’re traveling in.

A: Yes, it’s advisable to acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and consult a healthcare professional for altitude sickness medication before your trip.

Regardless of the season you choose, Leh Ladakh promises an unforgettable adventure filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling experiences. Whether you’re chasing snowflakes in winter or basking in the warmth of summer, each season unfolds a unique charm that will leave you spellbound. So pack your bags, embark on an epic journey, and let the mystique of Ladakh captivate your soul.

For curated tours and personalized experiences in Leh Ladakh, visit Adventour .

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Top Places to Visit Ladakh in September 2024

September brings a different vibe to this land, and September is the end of the peak tourist season before the land becomes a frozen beauty. With its spectacular beauty, there are a lot of destinations in Ladakh that you must visit in September. But while you are planning your Ladakh trip in September, you must be well prepared, and you should know the weather.

Stunning blue lakes, clear blue skies, lofty snow-covered mountains, and breathtaking mountains everything makes Ladakh more gorgeous in September. It looks like a paradise this time. It is the perfect time to laze around with a steaming cup of coffee and enjoy the best backdrop of the Himalayan ranges.

With its picturesque beauty and natural wonders, this small town also holds cultural and historical significance. For every adventure enthusiast, it is a dream destination. Especially when it is about September, your journey will undoubtedly be more adventurous.

Here you will get the opportunity to drive through the highest motorable roads. As Ladakh is entirely based on Buddhist culture, you can explore several ancient monasteries. The fluttering flags, along with the temperate weather, add more charm to the breathtaking beauty of Ladakh.

Table of Contents

Ladakh Weather in September:

The weather remains overall pleasant in Ladakh in September. The day remains pleasant, and the night becomes cold. During the daytime, the temperature hovers around 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, and on the contrary, the temperature at night drops down to 5 degrees Celsius.

From this month you will get cold here almost, and it is recommended to carry woolens to protect you from cold. In the second half of this month, the high-altitude passes of Ladakh receive snowfall. Therefore, make sure to carry enough clothes and proper traveling gear.

In September, you should go to the following best destinations in Ladakh:

The beauty of Ladakh is enhanced by the intermittent snowfall at the higher altitude regions in September. In September, you can enjoy your Ladakh trip at its best. Now let’s look at the destinations you can visit in Ladakh in September.

1. Shanti Stupa

It is situated on a hilltop in Chanspa. It is a beautiful dome-shaped Chorten that is reckoned as Shanti Stupa. From this place, you can get the entire view of Leh. As it offers the best view of the town, it is considered one of the best places to visit in Ladakh .

The walls inside the Stupa have panels that depict the life of Lord Buddha. The vibe of this particular place makes you want to stay here for long.

• Temperature: Pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.
• Popular Attractions to See: Majestic panoramic views of Leh city and surrounding mountains.
• How to reach: Located 5 kilometers from Leh, accessible by car or taxi.
• Activity: AMeditation, enjoying the sunset, and capturing breathtaking views.
• Near more Attractions: Leh city, Leh Palace.

2. Royal Leh Palace

On the summit of Tsemo Hill, Leh Palace is located. This Palace has a rich history. Ryal eh Palace is made of stones, mud, wood, and sand. This nine-storied Palace has some beautiful artistic ruins on display.

Here you can see how the royals lived. The excellent architecture is worth exploring.

• Temperature: Mild with temperatures around 10°C to 20°C.
• Popular Attractions to See: Magnificent architecture, panoramic views of Leh, and the Stok Kangri mountain range.
• How to reach with distance: Situated in the heart of Leh, about 3 kilometers from the main market, easily reachable by walking or taxi.
• Activity: Exploring the historic palace, learning about Ladakhi culture and history.
• Near more Attractions: Shanti Stupa, Leh Market.
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3. Namgyal Tsemo Gompa

It is another beautiful monastery set in the coarse background of the snow-covered Himalayas. Here you will get views of the rough terrains and beautiful snow-covered mountain tops.

From this monastery, you can witness diverse and stunning views of the surrounding area. Undoubtedly the pictures will mesmerize you. Read Also: Top 10 Famous Monasteries in Ladakh .

• Temperature: Comfortable with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C.
• Popular Attractions to See: Ancient monastery, statue of Maitreya Buddha, and panoramic views of Leh.
• How to reach: Located about 2 kilometers from Leh, accessible by taxi or a short hike.
• Activity: Exploring the monastery, enjoying serene surroundings, and photography.
• Near more Attractions: Leh Palace, Shanti Stupa.

4. Pangong Lake

Pangong Lake is situated at an altitude of 4350 meters in the Himalayas, and it is the highest saltwater lake in the world. In the background, you can see picturesque mountains. The beautiful landscapes, along with the tranquil blue waters of the lake, will take you to the world of fantasy.

It is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh for its breathtaking beauty. The best thing about this lake is that it changes its color and becomes blue, green, gray, and red at different times. Once you visit this destination, you can feel its bliss. Check more details on the Pangong Tso Lake, Ladakh Travel Guide.

• Temperature: Cool with temperatures around 5°C to 15°C.
• Popular Attractions to See: Pristine blue lake, breathtaking landscapes, and migratory birds.
• How to reach: Approximately 160 kilometers from Leh, accessible by a scenic drive or organized tours.
• Activity: Camping by the lake, photography, and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
• Near more Attractions: Hemis Monastery, Shey Palace.

5. Lamayuru

Do you want to witness the moonlike landscape for real? If yes, then you must visit Lamayuru in Ladakh . This place has also been considered a moonscape for tourists. In the 11th century, Mahasiddacarya Naropa found this place. The surreal, moonlike destination will indeed captivate you.

This destination is well known for its beautiful landscaping, picturesque views, and geographical formations. It is situated at an altitude of 3510 meters. When you come to this place, make sure to take some extraordinary images. Also, read: 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Leh Ladakh.

• Popular Attractions to See: Lamayuru Monastery, lunar-like landscapes, and meditation caves.
• How to reach: Located about 127 kilometers from Leh, accessible by car or bus via Leh-Srinagar Highway.
• Activity: Visiting the monastery, trekking in the surrounding hills, and experiencing local culture.
• Near more Attractions: Alchi Monastery, Magnetic Hill.

If you want to explore the adventure hub of Ladakh , you must visit Kargil. Even your Ladakh trip will be incomplete without visiting Kargil . It is one of the best places to visit in Ladakh for its historical significance. It is situated on the Srinagar to Leh highway. If you are a thrill-seeker, you must not miss seeing this place.

Besides, it is the hub of adventurous sports like camping, trekking, mountaineering, and river rafting. Here the most exciting part is the Line of Control, which is just 11 kilometers in the distance from Kargil. It divides India and Pakistan. Here you can explore many old gompas and monasteries as well.

• Temperature: Moderate with temperatures around 15°C to 25°C.
• Popular Attractions to See: Kargil War Memorial, Suru Valley, and historic Buddhist monasteries.
• How to reach: Situated approximately 215 kilometers from Leh, accessible by road via Leh-Srinagar Highway.
• Activity: Exploring the war memorial, trekking in Suru Valley, and experiencing local cuisine.
• Near more Attractions: Mulbekh Monastery, Drass War Memorial.
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Is Ladakh safe for tourists in September?

Yes, Ladakh is entirely safe for tourists in September. This time the region enjoys pleasant and comfortable weather. So, you won’t face any difficulty here. You can travel to Ladakh by road or flight without facing any security issues.

In the second half of the month, the flowing water across the roads freezes, and that ice makes the roads quite slippery in the morning. Therefore, it is advised to wait until the sun rises and the ice melts down.

Also, read the information on   14 Things You Need to Do in Ladakh

Travel Tips for Visiting Ladakh in September:

If you are traveling to Ladakh by road, it is recommended to carry extra fuel as the last petrol pump on the Manali-Leh highway is in Tandi. And the next pump is within a distance of 38 kilometers.

In Ladakh, you will get cold desert-type weather throughout the year. Therefore, make sure to carry suitable clothes.

It is recommended to consult your doctor before traveling to Ladakh . Many people face altitude mountain sickness. At such a high altitude, you may experience breathlessness, vomiting, severe headache, lack of appetite, etc., therefore, make sure to consult a doctor before planning your trip.

Make sure to get your inner Line Permit to travel to most of the places in Ladakh. Due to security reasons, tourists have to issue an ILP from the District magistrate’s office. However, you don’t need this permit to visit Leh except for such areas as Shyok Valley, Nubra Valley , Tso Moriri , Pangong, etc.

Make sure to carry comfortable and sturdy shoes as you have to walk a lot in Ladakh.

Carry required medicines as the only major hospital is situated in Leh city. And at the other tourist destinations, you will get the basic medical facilities.

Make sure to pack a basic travel essential kit that includes a rechargeable power bank, phone charger, torch with extra cells, water bottle, goggles, and sunscreen lotion.

Also, carry a small first aid kit in your travel bag. Make sure to bring some dry eatables too.

So, you already know that Ladakh experiences pleasant weather in September. And, you also have the best places where you can visit this September. Hopefully, you will get the best traveling experience there due to the comfortable weather. Undoubtedly the spectacular beauty of Ladakh will win your heart.

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About The Author

Tusk Travel Team

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Leh Ladakh in September – A Detailed Guide to Plan a Trip to Ladakh in September

Ladakh is a beautiful place with mountains and a cold desert. If you want to visit a site with some of the most serene mountain landscape and crystal-clear blue lakes, Ladakh is the place for you. If you are wondering whether September will be an excellent time to visit the area, do not worry. We have a guide that describes in detail the various aspects of a Ladakh trip in September.

September – the monsoon becomes milder, and the place becomes dry. The fixing of broken or damaged roads is almost complete by this time. It is an excellent time to visit as it passes the monsoon season, and the winters have yet not approached. In the coming months, the whole place will be freezing. September offers a small widow to tourists and travelers to visit Ladakh and enjoy the unmatched natural wonders. The temperatures are average during the day, but during the night-time, it remains a cold location. If the monsoon extends to September, there may be a few problems like road blockages and power cuts, but it is infrequent.

If you would like to plan a trip to Ladakh , September is a good time, and you will get to enjoy a lot more. There may still be some restrictions to travel, but they do not often occur, and dealing with them is more comfortable compared to the winter months. In the guide, we are going to have a detailed look at various aspects of a trip to Ladakh and inspire you to get off your couch and plan a trip to Ladakh in September!

It is by this time that all the harsh conditions of monsoon have nearly ended, and the more stringent climatic conditions of winter are yet to begin. If you cannot control the thrill-seeker in you and are planning for a quick trip in September, you are good to go. The place offers a lot of opportunities to have fun and enjoy adventure activities like bike riding, rafting, and going to some of the highest positions in the country. In September, you will have all the facilities. The scope for exploration becomes more comprehensive, and you will be able to visit a lot of places.

Some Pre-requisites to Plan a Trip to Ladakh in September:

Avoid the road if you are a first-timer.

It would rather be recommended that do not plan a road trip if you have never been to Ladakh before. Make sure that you have already been to Ladakh at least once before planning a road trip in September. Even though the repairing of roads is complete by then, but there are still chances of landslides and other obstacles.

Get Acclimatised Beforehand

Make sure you are comfortable at higher altitudes before you start your trip to Ladakh in September. A great move would be to spend the first few days at lower altitudes and get adapted to it, and then advance towards the higher elevations.

Try to Stay Fit

If you have already experienced living in the plains for a long time, it will be very tough for you to adapt to the atmospheric conditions in Ladakh. As you advance towards higher elevations, there are chances that you might suffer from Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Being physically fit and immune is a pre-requisite to sustain mountain sickness. If you are planning to go to Ladakh, make sure to prepare yourself mentally as well as physically.

Keep Your Documents and Permits Safe

If you want to visit to a lot of places like Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley, you will require inner-line permits. These permits are available at the magistrate’s office in Leh. Carry your valid ID proofs to get these permissions, and make photocopies of the licenses you get. You will need those while on your way to remote locations.

Stay Cautious; Stay Safe

Before heading on a Ladakh trip, make sure to inform your friends and family members. It is important because the roads in Ladakh are not too safe for amateurs, and therefore, your family must know about your whereabouts.

Tips on Visiting Ladakh In September:

Regardless of a few minor difficulties in staying at Ladakh in September, planning a Ladakh trip during September will be an excellent experience for you! As already mentioned, this is one of the peak months, so the region witnesses a considerable influx of tourists during this month. Thus, travellers during this month, get to enjoy the strange beauty of Ladakh with a lesser crowd around. For adventure seekers, it is an ideal time for a trip to this part of the country. In addition to all this, here are a few aspects that one should consider when planning a Ladakh trip in September:

Weather in Ladakh in September

As earlier said, this is a transition month between monsoon and winter, and autumn will begin to show changes in wind conditions. In the first half of September, day temperatures will remain warm, and you will see sharp temperature drops at night. We advise you to make your September visit in the first half of the month to avoid the bitter cold days of late September, where autumn will creep in almost in full swing. During this period, you may experience rain showers in the lower regions like Leh. Due to this, in late September, some snow can be seen in the inaccessible mountain tops. The rains are light showers, but the cold winds drop the temperature in the region.

Clothes to Wear in Leh Ladakh in September

With the prevailing weather conditions that you will witness in September, you need to pack your clothes wisely. During the daytime, light sweaters and jackets will work. But for the night, you still have to pack heavy woollen warmers, a windproof jacket with a hoody to cover your head and gloves. It is a requirement for the months, including September to all of winter. At the beginning of September, daytime temperatures will remain warm.

Hotels in Ladakh in September

It is a fact that the months from May to October make up the peak season for tourist visits to Ladakh. Therefore, during September, all hotels are operational and experience a good number of tourists. The service providers remain on the grounds providing services. It happens for some time, and in early October, they start winding up the season, and hotels do not operate throughout winter. September is also drifting time for tourists, and you will find a fewer number of tourists compared to July and August. You may be able to spot destinations that are quiet and without a lot of tourists during this month.

Keep Buffer Days in Your Itinerary

Ladakh is a special place for a tour as it is 3500 meters high in the mountains of Himalayas. The weather in the area is very unpredictable, and it may change at any moment. You should include buffer days in your plan. Also, keep a separate budget for conditions like blockades due to weather. It may be helpful in case of emergencies that cause a delay in your planned duration of the visit. In the extra days, you will cover up for all the delays.

Avoid Staying Outside Leh at Night:

Leh is one of the most stable locations, and you will have no problems with network connectivity or ATM services. It is the only place in Ladakh that will provide you all kinds of assistance if you are planning a trip to Ladakh in September. You can always expect to have proper accommodation options around this city. If you plan to stay overnight anywhere other than Leh, you might not be able to have a comfortable stay at all. Safety is another issue if you plan to stay away from this city.

Rely on Certified Rental Services:

While you are in Ladakh in September, you will have regular transportation services, either governmental or any other private rental services. Sometimes, things get a little dangerous as landslides become frequent, and with all the uncertainties in mind, you should always go with the certified transportation services.

Also, as September is a peak season, so there may be some crowd. Book the tickets before you arrive. It is a piece of advice you should follow to have comfortable transportation in Ladakh in September!

Plan as Smaller Groups:

If you are planning a group trip, you must consider the pros and cons of going in large groups. While you may be able to avail of a few benefits like discounts on accommodation but there are a few downsides to a larger group.

While visiting Ladakh in September, it becomes a little convenient for you if you have a smaller group with you. If you are a solo traveller, it is much better. In a larger group, you will have to book larger rooms, and that might come with an inflated price tag. Transportation for a large group is also tricky as regular taxis won’t work for you, and you will have to book buses. One more challenge with a larger group is that you will not be able to enjoy the silence in the mountains fully.

Be Mentally Prepared for Different Challenges:

Even if you go on a trip to Ladakh in September, there will always be some kind of difficulties. Once you have made plans for the trip, you will have to take care of a lot of things; building a to-do list, packing important stuff, preparing an itinerary, and many more. While doing all this, a thing to keep in mind is that you need to maintain a healthy mental state. Your mental strength will take you high in the mountains, help you remain calm.

Why Should You Plan a Trip to Ladakh in September?

Good conditions of roads.

By September, BRO completes the fixing of the broken sections of ways, and therefore it is ideal for a road trip tour to Leh and even to the interiors of Ladakh. There may be causeways of that give some trouble, especially to bikers, but it is easy to navigate and pass through them.

Reduced Tourist Traffic

Though tourist is still there in enough numbers in Ladakh, the figures are not comparable to months preceding September, and therefore you will have ample time doing site seeing without a lot of crowds distracting you.

Beautiful Landscapes

The winding-up summer and monsoon leaves a vibrant scene. It remains very appealing to the eye even during September. Ladakh becomes an ideal place for photographers during this month, and also it is accessible.

Availability of Utilities

September is part of the tourist season, and therefore service providers are still operational and running. They provide essential services like accommodation and car-rental services to tourists.

Things You Need to Be Careful While Planning a Trip to Ladakh in September:

By the end of September, temperatures start to fall sharply. It may be uncomfortable for tourists who are not able to withstand low temperatures. Here are some cons of a trip to Ladakh in September:

Extreme Weather Conditions:

The weather in the region changes very rapidly, and this unpredictability makes it a challenging place for regular tourists. Though the roads are mostly open throughout the year, during rains landslides may occur. If the rains are heavy, there may be frequent power cuts in the region. Electricity usually gets disrupted and makes it more complicated for outsiders to handle situations. With the disruption to traffic, sometimes, people may get stuck for hours without proper accommodation. Network connectivity is also a severe issue during such extreme weather conditions.

Budget Issues:

As the weather conditions take unexpected turns, the cost of accommodation, transportation, and even necessities booking may suddenly go up. You may have to go over your budget to sustain such conditions.

Challenging Living Conditions:

Ladakh is beautiful to the eye, but it is also a very harsh place. Living there requires one to be physically and mentally sturdy. There is a lack of oxygen, and even during the summer months, the temperatures in the night can drop very low. The locals have become accustomed to such conditions and survive with minimal requirements. It is not always right with tourists. Tourists require proper accommodation and facilities which may not be available during their visit. In case you are planning a trip in September, the challenges are less, but they are still present. In the extreme weather conditions of Ladakh, you may have to live with very few resources. You might have to depend on prepared foods for a long time, and while you visit remote places, only noodles and eggs will be available.

Suggested Route to Reach Ladakh in September: Manali to Ladakh or Delhi to Leh airport. From Manali, you can take a taxi or rent a vehicle for yourself.

Simplified Itinerary to Plan a Ladakh Trip in September:

A simplified itinerary of 9-10 days if you are planning for a Ladakh trip in September. It also includes the days you will use to get acclimatized to high elevations.

Day 01: Arrival in Leh; spend the rest of the day at total leisure.

Day 02-03: Take a walk outside and visit a few places like markets and museums. It will help you have an understanding of the existing climate conditions at higher altitudes. If you have a high level of physical fitness, one day will be enough. Keep a few extra days at hand if you want to get fully acclimatized.

Day 04: Begin your exploration on day four. Visit places that are at some distance distant attraction like Magnetic Hill, Maitreya Buddha, Lamayuru, Shanti Stupa, and others.

Day 05: Acquire permits to visit Nubra Valley; overnight stay in Nubra Valley.

Day 06: Drive back to Leh followed by overnight stay at the Leh hotel.

Day 07: Visit Pangong Lake; spend your time enjoying the beauty of the magical lake.

Day 08: Drive back to Leh; spend the rest of the day at leisure followed by evening visit to local market and nearby tourist attraction points if time allows.

Day 09: Visit Tso Moriri Lake; drive back to Leh by evening for your overnight stay.

Day 10: End of tour; departure from Leh.

Conclusion:

A trip to Ladakh is possible in any of the summer months if you keep in mind all the points as mentioned earlier. A September trip may sound challenging for some, but that is the best part about Ladakh, it is always challenging. Ladakh is the place where every mountain lover and adventure seeker want to go at least once in their life. But, before you embark on this trip, make sure you are both mentally and physically healthy. If you can adapt to the harsh terrain in Ladakh and have made proper preparations for your journey, you are sure to have a lot of fun.

Make sure that you book hotel rooms and transportation services before beginning the trip. Confirm everything about the place from your tour guide, and do not go anywhere you are not permitted to go. Keep your id cards safe, and when you require a permit for someplace, provide them to the officials. With care and caution, you will have a memorable Ladakh trip in September!

Suggested Read: 10 Reasons why you Shouldn’t Visit Ladakh

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10 Hidden Secrets About Traveling To Leh Ladakh In September

Well, we know you have made all genuine efforts to go to Leh Ladakh in September. But for any reason, you could not. For those who did not make it till now, don’t be sad. There are now all the more reasons to do so, in the future.

Travel to Leh Ladakh is nowadays on everybody’s once in a lifetime bucket list. And why not, it’s a place where everything transforms from weather to roads. To the numerous colors of the mountain deserts and the traveler also.

On top of that, road trips have become one of the most sought after traveling modes. Road Trips for obvious reasons have their own advantages. It’s adventurous and offers flexibility. You can be spontaneous and can visit remote locations. And the fact that it offers you altogether a different holiday experience.

Well, let’s come back to our topic for now. The best time to travel to Leh Ladakh is from May to September. But the majority of the tourists visit from June to August. If you could not make it in these months, here’s why you should visit Leh Ladakh in September.

1) Less Traffic On Roads in Leh Ladakh in September

In high season, both Srinagar and Manali highways are too crowded with all types of vehicles plying. Bikes, Trucks, Buses and what not.

This is the only time when all the fresh goods come to Leh. After a long 5-6 months of the road closure, there is a huge shortage of fresh material. Once the road opens in Mid-End May, there are numerous trucks and army vehicles carrying goods.

Ladakh and its emptiness are best experienced in September. Simply because riding through roads with less traffic is a bikers dream. You know what I am talking about. So plan your bike trip to Leh Ladakh in September. And you will give thank me for this.

2) Good Discounts In Camps And Hotels

The arrival of September already sets in the mood of closing Campsites and Hotels. This is the time when you can get the best deals on anything and everything.

Traveling to Leh can be heavy on your pockets. And all those backpackers and bikers do travel on a very limited budget. In peak season, there is no way you will get a good deal. But in September, things change pretty fast.

There are fewer tourists during this time. Travel agencies, camps, guest houses, hotels, everyone will offer you some off-season discount. So grab your luggage and get ready to be on a voyage of discovery. Without being laid in your pocket.

3) Snow On The Peaks

You can experience some fresh snow on all peaks. This brings in another dimension to the travel. And guess what, you have a chance to play with snow along with friends.

Usually, monsoon ends by 1st week of September. That is when fresh snow falls on high mountain passes. This makes a perfect chance for you to enjoy that lovely fresh snow.

4) Eat Fresh Seabuckthorn Fruit (only in Leh Ladakh is September)

Yes, this is the time when the famous orange wonder of Ladakh ripens. The famous Seabuckthorn berry. You can eat them fresh or drink fresh juice to get high on vitamin C. Not to mention other essential nutrients that help you acclimatize better.

Seabuckthorn is very famous within Ayurvedic lovers. It is because of its many health benefits and rich in antioxidants.

Every bit of the plant is used for making ayurvedic medicines. It is said to have been cured many diseases such as arthritis, gastrointestinal ulcers, gout, and skin rashes.

It is also believed to be good for heart, blood pressure, diabetes, protects skin, boosts the immune system. Other ailments related to the liver and fight cancer cells as well. You can buy seabuckthorn Jam, extract, dried, juiced, squash, oil, etc.

5) Fewer Tourists At Famous Spots

How many times have you visited a famous tourist site and get disappointed? And that too because of the sea of people fighting to get the best spot.

That’s exactly what you will see in peak summer months. Long lines on Inner line permits and ATMs. Too many people infamous spots take away the very soul and beauty of the place. Mad tourists taking pics from left, right and center.

Due to this rush, locals find a way to commercialize it even more to make a quick buck. And this endless cycle never ends in the summer months.

Exactly to avoid all of that you must plan your travel in the late months. Also traveling to Leh Ladakh in September gives you a fair chance to experience this place peacefully.

So, remember, visit Leh Ladakh in September and you can be sure of having the best of times. And please note, away from the maddening crowd, peacefully with your friends and family.

6) Lesser Rains, Slush and River Crossings

As the monsoon starts to fade away, there are lesser rains in September. Rivers return to their normal flows and the water crossings are safer yet adventurous enough.

A rider on a motorcycle knows this very well. Slush and water crossings are worst during the summer months. To avoid some of the notorious ones, it is best to visit Leh Ladakh in September end.

Not to mention rains. Rains make it harder for a road traveler. Even though it is adventurous to overcome these natural hurdles. But sometimes it might become life-threatening. Proper planning and knowledge are required to safely travel to Leh Ladakh.

Leh Ladakh weather in September is the best for travel, especially road trips. The temperature of Leh Ladakh in September remains around 5 degrees to 21 degrees centigrade. Isn’t it perfect for travel, nice and chilly and a good sun to enjoy?

7) Better Road Conditions in Leh Ladakh in September

As the majority of the work undertaken by BRO and GREF people is done by the end of August. Ladakh then welcomes you with a freshly laid tarmac, repaired roads and lesser disruptions of the journey.

Again, this is something I especially like. Everyone knows that feeling of freshly made roads on such high altitudes. Driving and riding are so much better. And while doing so, you really get a chance to enjoy the sceneries as well. Instead of just fixating your eyeballs on the road, you can souk in Ladakh. And that too without worrying about a pothole or a boulder.

Road conditions in Leh Ladakh in September are one of the best. Don’t forget the awesome weather.

8) Best Time For Photography

Green trees and forests, bright yellow fields, blue skies with a dash of white clouds, snow-clad peaks, crystal clear river water, beautiful roads, etc. etc. etc. I can’t stop myself boasting more about this one.

Leh Ladakh’s countless features are in its full bloom and just perfect for that awesome shot you have been craving for. All colors are available for you to exploit. And I bet this will definitely awaken the photographer inside you.

weather conditions in Leh Ladakh in September allows you to capture all of that. It’s a dream come true for a photographer. And if you are one, always plan your travel in September. Instagram will love you for taking this decision.

9) You Can Spot Wildlife Too

In the scarce conditions of Ladakh, you can also spot some wildlife on your trip. For all those wildlife enthusiasts would definitely know about the migratory season.

Also, this is the time when animals come down from high mountain peaks as winter starts to set in. This is also a good time to see winter migratory birds which arrive in Sept – Oct. And if you are lucky enough, how about spotting a Snow Leopard.

Snow Leopard is also called as the “ghosts of the mountain”. This is because they are so rarely spotted. They spend most of their lives in solitude. Leh Ladakh September weather allows you to trek high mountain reaches to spot this amazing cat.

This is also the month in which Hemis national park can be visited. You can spot lots of wildlife like Wild Yak, Marmot, Red fox, Ladakh urial, musk deer, etc. Don’t forget the state animal of Ladakh, the ibex.

10) Ladakh Festival And Other Events in September

Ladakh Festival is one of the few non-monastic events that provide you the first-hand experience of the rich cultural heritage of Ladakh. Another big event is the Ladakh Marathon happens at this time of the year.

The marathon attracts many enthusiastic tourists and adventure lovers. What a good way to achieve an extra mile by participating in such events.

Ladakh festival is filled with events like masked dancing, singing, traditional music, traditional Ladakhi food, and dresses. This one-week long event also has ancient games like polo and archery.

The climate of Leh Ladakh in September allows for a full-fledged marathon. The Ladakh Marathon is the highest and amongst the toughest marathons in the world. For an enthusiast, you should arrive in Leh at least a week in advance to acclimatize for the race day.

This is a high endurance marathon that requires years of practice, will, and determination. Running at 3500m above sea level makes it even more so important to acclimatize to the high altitude.

You can buy so many handmade goods made by artisans in small far-flung villages.

Bonus Reason

Less pollution and trafic jam in leh ladakh in september.

Yes, you heard it right. Due to so much influx of people in 2 months’ time, the city is full of vehicles. In the small alleyways of Ladakh, there is such high traffic that traffic jams are always there. Horns blasting their way into your ears and stalled traffic invites pollution.

Therefore to avoid the madness, it is best to plan travel during September. There are very fewer vehicles, traffic is perfect, highways are empty and less pollution. The climate in Leh Ladakh in September is also best and allows you to enjoy every bit of it has to offer.

It is also the best time for treks. Not much snow on very high altitudes, especially Stok kangri, makes the sport a bit easier.

You can discover more and more reasons to visit Ladakh in September. It has got diverse things to do and to lots of places to visit in remote areas. The question still really is whether we are able to get rid of our comfort of summers.

The temperature of Leh Ladakh in September is on the chilly side. But, it makes the experience of real Ladakh, in its entirety, a real and genuine experience.

In true sense, travel is not to visit or to see things or to reach a destination. But to have a journey that is full of experiences and learnings to change your inner self-being.

Keep exploring and riding…

“The most important thing is to have a good relationship with the bike… you have to understand what she wants. I think of a motorcycle as a woman, and I know that sounds silly, but it’s true.”   – Valentino Rossi

Bikamp  has a campsite near Sariska named  Bikamp Aravalli’s Camp-Resort . If you are planning for an offbeat and adventurous experience, you can get in touch at  [email protected]  or call us at +91 – 9818824450 / 9549919666

Bikamp Adventures has permanent campsites at  Leh, Ladakh  as well.

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Best time to visit Ladakh

Temperature, climate & weather, temperature and precipitation in leh-ladakh, what is the coldest month in leh-ladakh.

The coldest month is January, with an average temperature of -3°C (27°F) during the day and an average temperature of -15°C (5°F) during the night. As the weather is always dry and sunny, it does not feel as cold as one would expect and travelling in Ladakh at this time of the year is a wonderful experience.

How many days per year does it rain in Leh-Ladakh?

Ladakh is a high-altitude desert, there are only 13 rainfall days per year and 106 mm (4.2 in) of accumulated precipitation. This is the reason why water is a very precious resource and saving water when travelling in Ladakh is important.

What is the driest month in Leh-Ladakh?

The driest months are June and October, with less than half day of rainfall per month and 4 mm (0.2 in) of precipitation.

What is the warmest month in Leh-Ladakh?

The warmest month is July, with an average temperature of 25°C (77°F) during the day and an average temperature of 10°C (50°F) during the night. Average temperatures in August are just 1°C (2°F) lower.

What is the wettest month in Leh-Ladakh?

7-day weather forecast for leh-ladakh, best season to visit leh-ladakh, winter in ladakh (january, february, march).

Spring in Ladakh (April, May, June)

Summer in ladakh (july, august, september), autumn in ladakh (october, november, december), private taxi, shared taxi, map of ladakh, hotels in ladakh, sightseeing tours, tour packages, travel itineraries, practical info, ladakh travel guides, client reviews.

• Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh

Every year, hundreds of people plan to visit Ladakh and this is the reason why; knowing the best time to visit Ladakh is important. Not only does this help in getting a better understanding of the terrain but also helps in planning better. And this question will surely come in front of you while planning to visit this exotic land. So, like many others, if you too are going to visit here, then ensure knowing about all the elements of Ladakh including the best time to visit.

Traveling to Leh-Ladakh is one of the most cherished thoughts for many. Enjoy the sights of the vast and desolate expanse of hills and valleys. This along with the thrilling experience of enduring the harsh climate is one of its kind adventure. While some people suggest summers to be the best time to visit Ladakh, others love traversing during the harsh winters. Where summers are exciting and comfortable, winters are harsh but thrilling too. From multiple festivals to amazing landscapes, one can enjoy various things as per the time you visit.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh

The best time to visit Ladakh is during summers when the temperature remains comfortable and you get a chance to comfortably explore all the areas. The temperature between these months remains between 7°C and 26°C.

Ladakh in Summer Season (March to June)

April marks the beginning of summer and this is the tourist season in Ladakh. From this month Ladakh starts to become alive with tourist activities. The temperature throughout the season remains between 7°C and 26°C. The summer months of Ladakh start from March and last till June. Throughout these months, the sun shines bright making the temperature and weather of the entire UT quite comfortable for visitors.

Why should you visit Ladakh during summers

Apart from better weather, summers are the best time to visit Ladakh because every attraction of the UT reopens from this time. Visiting all the lakes, passes, villages, and other important destinations becomes easy and comforting.

During this season, the nights are also comfortable and the temperature doesn’t drop much. The sky remains clear and you can enjoy the view of the distant mountains too. Photography and videography become easier and more comfortable during summers too.

As both the highways remain clear and snow melts away, adventure seekers and bikers also find it amazing to visit here.

Festivals in Ladakh during the summer season

During the summer season, you can also enjoy being a part of the various festivals at different places. Some of the best festivals to become a part of are Hemis Festival s, YuruKabgyat, and Saka Dawa. To know more, click here !

Hotel availability during the summer season

Summer sees the peak of tourism in Ladakh and the hotel availability remains a bit of an issue. Although the accommodations function in full swing, finding a good one can still become a task because of the rush. It is advised that one should get their hotel room booked before arriving in Ladakh.To know more, Click here !

Ladakh in Monsoon Season (July to September)

During Mid-May, only the Srinagar-Leh highway opens up. But during early June, Manali-Leh road opens up along with Rohtang Pass. And from June people start traversing through this highway because before this the highway experiences blockages due to heavy snow. Meanwhile, just before the monsoons, it is really cool and suitable to travel to Ladakh due to the amazing weather. But rest assured that monsoon season is also considered an ideal time to visit Ladakh because the temperature here remains between 5°C and 20°C.

Why should you visit Ladakh during the monsoon season

Ladakh falls in the rain shadow zone of the Himalayas and that’s the reason why it experiences low rainfall throughout the year. But it is still refreshing and perfect for some adventure activities.

The monsoon season is also an ideal time for adventure junkies because the rivers offer rafting level III at many points in Zanskar and an amusing trek experience at Kang Yatse, Spituk, and Markha Valley. Nevertheless, even the climate of this rain-shadow area keeps on changing from time to time. Previously, there have been rains in Ladakh too, or intermittent overcast conditions. But nothing drastic has happened till now.

Festivals in Ladakh during monsoon season

Apart from the adventure that’s in store for the visitors, Ladakh in the monsoon is also a great time to be a part of several festivals. There are festivals like Karsha Gustor, Phyang Tsedup, and Korzok Gustor to name some.

Hotel availability during monsoon season

The accommodations in Ladakh during the monsoon season will not be a problem. At every attraction, there are going to be a lot of options available for you. The hotels or camps are going to be there in full swing but the crowd comparatively thins down. This allows the visitors to enjoy selecting through the options. You do not necessarily have to pre-book your stay at any place because it is highly unusual that the hotels at any place are full.

Ladakh in Winter Season (October to February)

By this time the winds start getting colder and many places start receiving snow. The place experiences sub-zero temperatures at all locations above 14,000 ft. The temperature shuttles between -22°C to -7°C throughout Ladakh. Almost all the tourists leave the place with only a few remaining to brave the chill. Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highways remain open for the first week of October and that too highly depends on the weather condition.

Apart from this week of October, Ladakh remains inaccessible for the rest of the months of winter. The only way to reach Ladakh during the winter season is via airways. You can take a direct flight from Delhi to Leh. There are indirect flights from other cities of India to reach here.

Why should you visit Ladakh during Winter Season

The coldest months of the winter season are December and January. And people visit here during these months to enjoy snow activities, snow leopard safari, and the popular Chadar Trek in Zanskar Valley. Although accessing Ladakh is only possible by flights, the internal circuits of the UT remain open throughout the year. But yes, because of heavy snowfall, you might have to face roadblocks too often.

Note: If you are planning to visit here for Chadar Trek, it is recommended to keep an eye on the weather. Knowing about the Chadar formation on the river is of utmost importance.

Festivals in Ladakh during the winter season

Thiksey and Padum Festival are celebrated during November month and tourists can get a chance to enjoy the celebration and savor the delicious local delicacies. If you are planning on visiting here during the winter months, try to become a part of these festivals.

Hotel availability during the winter season

Most of the hotels, guesthouses, restaurants get closed and even locals move back, vacating the place till next summer. And finding accommodation will not be difficult but highly limited. It is advised to get your stay booked before visiting here. The cold would have already settled in by this time and there is frequent snowfall which makes survival and acclimatization difficult.

The temperature continues to dip further with each passing day. One of the major highlights of your visit is that you get to witness the changing colors of Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri which happens from November to December/mid-January. After this, the Lakes of Ladakh get completely frozen with solid ice and one can even easily walk on them.

FAQs About the Best Time to Visit leh Ladakh

Q: which is the best time to visit ladakh by bike.

Ans: Summer and monsoon season which is between the months of mid-May and early- October is considered the best time to visit Leh Ladakh by bike. Howver, you need to check the weather conditions during the trip for any calamity changes.

Also, be informed that the Srinagar Leh Highway reopens around mid-May. While the Manali-Leh Highway reopens in around early/mid-June. Both of these highways remain open till September or October, depending on the snow.

Q: Which is The Best Time to Visit Ladakh By Car?

Ans: Summer and Monsoon are the best time to visit Ladakh by car just as above! mid-May and early- October is considered the best time to visit Ladakh by road. Again it is worth mentioning that the two highways that connect Ladakh, Srinagar-Leh, and Manali-Leh reopen between early/mid-may and early/mid-June, respectively.

It is also advised that you must plan accordingly after reviewing the weather and climate conditions of Ladakh at your time of visit.

Q: Which is The Best Time to Visit Ladakh By Air?

Ans: If you want to visit Ladakh by air then the best time is throughout the year! If you want cheap flight tickets, visit Ladakh between June, July, August, November, December, January, and February. Months like April, May, September, and October are when airfares to and from Ladakh become expensive.

Q: What Is The Best Time to Visit Zanskar Valley in Ladakh?

Ans: The roads to Zanskar are not operational during winters from December to February due to excessive snowfall. Zanskar Valley beacons tourists to come from mid-June - September (summers and monsoon). Zanskar Valley falls in the rain shadow area since its elevation is a staggering 9,000 ft - 25,000 ft (approx.) which is why it doesn't receive much rain. The elevation also makes sure that you do not suffer the blistering heat! In these 4 months, you will have no trouble reaching Zanskar Valley and enjoy sightseeing as the roads to reach Zanskar from Leh remain open.

People also plan on visiting here during the winter season. The only way to reach Zanskar Valley in winters is via walking on the thick sheet of ice (also called Chadar of Ice) which develops on the Zanskar River due to the freezing of water.

Q: What Is The Best Time to do the Chadar Trek in Ladakh?

Ans: Around 15 December to the end of January is the best time to do the Chadar Trek in Ladakh. During this time, a thick sheet of ice is formed on the Zanskar River. Expect to climb icy rocks and boulders during 90 kilometers (approx.) one-way trek! Chadar Trek is only possible in winters.

Note: It is advised to keep an eye on the weather to make sure that the river is frozen. With increasing global warming, the chadar is not being formed and the trek is not happening due to the thin sheet.

Q: Which Month is The Best to Visit Ladakh For Budget Travelers?

Ans: Budget travelers will find good deals on accommodation and airfares when the highways to reach Ladakh get closed! Tourism dips during winters and that's the time when budget travelers get the best deal. There are two routes to reach and return from Ladakh; Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh highway. Both of these remain closed from October till May.

This is the reason why you will get good discounts on accommodation and airfares between October and April. Apart from this, if you book your Ladakh air tickets in advance, chances of getting better deals are high.

Q: Which is the Best Time to Go Ladakh With Family?

Ans: The best time go Ladakh with family is from June to September, either via road or air. This is the time when Ladakh tourism is at its peak and the weather remains comfortable throughout the day and night. Finding accommodation and venturing within the Leh region won't be a problem. Stumbling across roadblocks will also reduce significantly. But if you look from a leisure perspective, transportation mode will play a crucial role. Because air travel is the most suggested, safe, and comfortable way to reach Ladakh with family.

Q: Which is The Best Time to Visit Ladakh For couples?

Ans: Although Ladakh is not a couple of destinations, the young and adventurous Indians prefer visiting here too often. But if considering this part for couples, winters will probably be the best time to visit Ladakh for a honeymoon or couple getaway. The winter season in Ladakh starts in October and lasts till March. The accommodation price fluctuates a little. Even summers in Ladakh (from May to July) are pleasing temperature-wise, and there are places where you would require woolen clothes during the night in high-altitude regions.

So the best time to visit Ladakh for a honeymoon will depend on your travel taste and holiday preferences. If you would like to see snowfall on your honeymoon in Ladakh, come in winter. If you want to enjoy camping, rafting, and other adventure activities, come in the summers.

Q: Best Time to visit Leh Ladakh for Snowfall?

Ans: The best time to visit Leh Ladakh for snowfall is between November and February. Though snowfall can be seen throughout the year at certain high-altitude places. But the winter months are the best and if you are looking for a good amount of snowfall then fly to Leh in January.

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Leh Ladakh in September

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Ladakh opens for tourism sometime in May, when the Srinagar route to Leh is declared open. In early June, the Manali road is also cleared for vehicle movement. In July, the tourist season is in full swing and will remain so for the next three months. Things start to end in October and with the arrival of November, it’s all over for the season. The wait starts again next year; when winter had passed and the valley was accessible by road. Of all these months, if you asked about the best time to visit; chances are that at least 7 out of 10 times you will be advised to visit Leh Ladakh in September.

So, why September For Ladakh?

It is considered the best time to visit Ladakh (at least by people familiar with the terrain), but why? There are several reasons behind this that I will discuss later in this article; along with some other tips on how to plan your trip for the better.

The reason why visiting Leh Ladakh in September is considered a good idea is more convenient and less risky. Convenience is in terms of road conditions, which in September are the best ever. So far, restoration work across the region is almost complete and the roads will be in perfect condition. After September, it is only the harsh winter ahead and the roads will not improve.

If you were in May or June, it would be the opening of the season; and you will come across gravely broken roads; that BRO would have started working. This is also the time when the snow would start to melt and there will be countless water crossings along the way.

However, if you went in the months of July and August, the problems would only increase even more. The monsoon arrives in the Himalayas in July and after that, there is no way to say when and where it can rain. Landslides and explosions of clouds on the hills are common in these two months. Remember the 2010 Ladakh cloud explosion that killed hundreds? This happened in the month of August. Another problem with monsoons is the increased flow of water in the water passages. In July and August, fed by melting snow and rain, these small streams become Nallah monsters and present a great challenge to cross.

That was in terms of security and convenience. But that is not all that involves September. It is probably also the best time in terms of views. Monsoons would disappear long ago in September, but the vegetation did not. You will still be treated by green hills in the valleys of Lahaul and Kashmir. It is the beginning of the fall season and the views en route and in Ladakh will delight you.

Last, but not least, is the tourist crowd. Ladakh recently started to get crowded in the high tourist season. Sometimes people could not find a place to spend the night in Nubra and Pangong; and had to return to the city of Leh. September, on the other hand, is considered the end of the tourist season. Although there are still tourists here, it will not be as crowded as in previous months.

How to plan a trip to Leh Ladakh in September?

And that is why visiting Ladakh in September is considered a better time than other months. How you can plan your trip and what are some of the things you should keep in mind is what I will provide information in this post.

Is Ladakh open in September?

The answer is definitely yes. Ladakh is completely open to tourists in September. Although it is considered the end of the tourist season, all hotels and inns here remain operational until October; as well as other activities related to tourism, such as taxis, bicycle rental, rafting, etc. The entire Ladakh region, including the Nubra valley, Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri, is also accessible by road in September.

Water crossings

There will still be many of them, but the intensity and flow of the water will depend on your travel time. If you are traveling in early September, there will be a lot of water flowing. However, with the progress of September, the climate starts to get colder, reducing the process of melting snow and, therefore, water in streams. If you are traveling towards the end of September, there will only be a few large streams on the way. The minors would already have disappeared.

This is more or less related to the point above. As the flow of water slows, some of these flows are reduced to mere puddles; or just a little water flowing down the road. The problem arises when this water freezes at night and forms black ice on the road. This problem is more in the second half of the month than in the first. If you were traveling towards the end of September, it would be best to wait for the sun to rise before starting your journey for the day. That way, at least the black ice would have melted. Of course, there can be no travel involved at night; after dark or before sunrise.

Ladakh in September on Bike

One of my personal favorite moments for cycling to Ladakh. The roads will be smooth, there will be no rain and the views will be fascinating. If you have a minimal interest in photography, you can stop at each step to click on more and more photos. The only word of caution here would be to prepare for the cold. It starts to snow in high altitude passages, like Khardung La and Chang La, towards mid-September. Even on passages like Baralacha La and Zoji La, there can be snow showers at night. This will also be related to the black ice point I mentioned above.

Therefore, when planning a trip to Leh Ladakh in September, make sure that you are carrying adequate piloting equipment that can keep you warm during the tour. This includes thermal clothing, a heavy windproof jacket and good quality gloves. And again, wait for the sun to rise before starting the journey. If there was snow on the road the night before, a little sunlight would ensure it melted.

Keep buffer days on the itinerary

This really applies regardless of the time you are going to Ladakh. You should not be bound by strict deadlines. Keep at least one day as a reservation on your itinerary. That way, if you were stuck somewhere for a day or two, at least you would be able to pay without something going wrong at home in your absence. If your trip went as planned, you could use that day to relax at the end of the trip.

Weather in Leh Ladakh in september

The weather in Ladakh starts to get cold in September; but it will not be unbearably cold. In the first half of the month, it would still be pleasant; the days will be moderately hot, but the temperature will drop at night. In mid-September, it begins to snow at the top of Khardung La and Chang La, which brings cold winds even in lower areas, such as the city of Leh and the Nubra valley. Snow is often accompanied by rain. Therefore, when it is snowing at the top of the passages, the lower areas can witness a little rain. The frequency, however, will not be as good and will be more at the end of September.

Clothes to wear in Leh Ladakh in September

Continuing from the above point, a trip to Ladakh in September means that you would have to bring your winter clothes. It doesn’t matter if you were coming by motorcycle, car or flight; your packaging should include a pair of thermal clothing, wool, good quality gloves, if possible, warm socks and a good windproof jacket. Make sure your coat has a hood to protect your head, face, ears and neck. Otherwise, please bring a muffler too.

Snow in Leh Ladakh in September

Does it snow in Ladakh in September? The answer is yes, but as I mentioned above, just at the top of the peaks. The chances of snowfall in the city of Leh or in other places like Diskit or Hunder are much less. There will be no snow in Leh in September or October. In the lower areas, it starts to snow only in November or December.

Hotels in Ladakh in September

It is still the tourist season, so all hotels and inns will remain operational in September. Only after the first week of October do they begin to end the season. In recent years, Ladakh has started to get a little crowded and finding a hotel from June to August can be a challenge. However, this is not the case in September. At this point, the number of tourists starts to decrease and you can easily find a place to stay. In fact, hotels in Leh in September will cost slightly less than the other months.

With that said, many people still chose to book in advance and you can do this for your peace of mind. For those traveling on a budget, I recommend that you arrive at your destination; find a hotel to your liking; and negotiate a deal on the spot.

Manali to Ladakh in September

You can definitely plan a trip on the Manali Leh Highway in September. It is only after the beginning of October that traveling on the Manali route becomes a little risky. The road remains open until mid-October; and then it is declared closed after it starts snowing in Baralacha La. So going from Manali to Leh by road in September is perfectly safe. However, remember that the longer you delay it, the colder it will become. If possible, plan your journey early in the month. As I mentioned earlier, it starts to snow in Ladakh in September. Between Manali and Ladakh, there are 5 high altitude passes and it may well snow on top of any of them. If it is not heavy, a light snow shower is definitely possible.

Srinagar to Leh in September

The road from Srinagar Leh remains open for a little longer than the road from Manali Leh. In 2017, the road was open until early December, so there should be no problem traveling from Srinagar to Leh by road in September. But yes, there is a high chance of snowfall here as well. It will not snow in lower areas, but it is definitely possible to take a light snow shower on top of passages like Zoji La.

Places to visit in Ladakh in September

All of this and the time it allows. The entire region remains open to tourists in September and the only restriction will be the number of days you have. Later in this article, I suggested an itinerary that you can follow, including all the main tourist sites to see.

Ladakh in september

So, to sum it all up, here’s a description of what Ladakh would look like in that part of September.

Ladakh in September in the first week:

This is the best time to visit. Lots of vegetation on the way on the Manali – Leh and Srinagar – Leh highways. If you like photography a little, this is the time when you should plan a trip.

Leh Ladakh in mid-September

at this point, it will start to get a little cold and the chances of snowfall at the top of the passes will increase. The number of tourists in Ladakh would start to decrease and you will be able to get better deals on hotels.

Ladakh in late September

If you are planning a trip to Ladakh in September last week, make sure you are bringing a lot of wool, thermal clothes and a heavy windproof jacket. It would have snowed on top of high altitude passages by now. The temperature during the night would definitely drop close to 0 ° C.

Ladakh from September to October

If your trip was the way you were traveling last week in September and the first week in October, it would be better to go on the Manali Leh road and return via Srinagar.

Suggested Itinerary

I think that covers everything there is to know about visiting Ladakh in September. Finally, below is an example itinerary that you can follow. For the sake of this article, I will assume that you are traveling from Delhi. If your starting point was different, only the first and last day’s journey will be changed; the rest of the details will still be applied.

• Delhi to Jammu – Day 1
• Jammu to Srinagar – Day 2
• Srinagar to Kargil – Day 3
• Kargil to Leh – Day 4
• Leh – Day 5
• Leh to Diskit – Day 6
• Diskit to Turtuk to Panamik – Day 7
• Panamik to Pangong via Shyok – Day 8
• Pangong to Hanle – Day 9
• Hanle to Karzok – Day 10
• Karzok to Pang – Day 11
• Pang to Jispa – Day 12
• Jispa to Manali – Day 13
• Manali to Delhi – Day 14

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Plan your trip during best season to experience the best of this stunning destination

Best time to visit Ladakh by bike or cab is during the month of June. The months from mid-September to mid-October are considered to be the best season to enjoy the stunning beauty of the landscape of Ladakh and Leh. The month of March is considered to be the best time to visit Ladakh for adventure trip. While the months from April to mid-May remain the peak season for Ladakh tourism. During the months from August to December, it gets quite risky and dangerous to visit Ladakh as monsoon and winter take a toll on Ladakh during these months. Hotel, flights and food may get expensive during the peak season in Ladakh. If you are planning to visit here during these months, book your tickets in advance. 

Bike Trip to Ladakh :

Best time to visit Ladakh on bike is during summer season. Summers in Ladakh are characterized by comfortable, and cozy weather with sun shining over the snow clad mountain peaks. The plain sailing roads without any blockage by landslides or snowfall, also make it the best time to visit Ladakh on bike . During winters and monsoons, it becomes quite difficult to travel by road. Warmer weather in summer months (May through early October) makes sightseeing in Ladakh quite enjoyable, and one can cover almost all major Ladakh places such as Pangong Lake and Nubra Valley that are open for tourists.

The best time to visit Ladakh by road is from mid-May to September as the Leh Manali Highway opens up via Rohtang Pass. Mid-September to mid-October is an amazing time to visit Leh and Ladakh as the place is permeated in flamboyance through the Srinagar-Leh as well as Manali-Leh roads. Road conditions are better during this time. For enthusiastic bikers, the best time to visit Ladakh on bike is during the months of July and August as all passes and streets to the land are opened and the land turns exceptionally welcoming. Let’s have a look at the segregation to decide on which is the best month to visit Ladakh.

April - June ( 2°C to 19°C ) :

With the month of April, travel passes for tourists are open. Hence, summer season is the best time to visit Ladakh . The weather during this time is crisp and the skies are clear, offering splendid views that can be enjoyed through a ride on bike or jeep.

During the late April, the region sees the melting of the lakes, and one can witness a spread of brilliant colours everywhere. And, with the beginning of the month of June, one can hop on an excursion to Rohtang Pass as well.

July - September ( 3 °C to 17°C ) :

Experiencing irregular heavy rainfall during the monsoon season starting from the month of July, it is advised not to get on an excursion to Ladakh this time. With frequent landslides, roadblocks, and snow slides, it becomes quite difficult to walk or drive here.

Though, the month of September can be considered as a good time to visit Ladakh. For, the precipitation stops and there is hardly any humidity.

October - March (-9 °C to 2°C) :

With temperature dropping to minus degrees, it is not recommended to visit Ladakh during the winter season. Covered with snow, driving through roads can be quite dangerous.

However, adventure lovers can choose to hop on Chadar Trek during the months of January to March.

Festivals in Ladakh

Festivals enhance the beauty of any destination, and that is true for Ladakh as well. The deserted land of Ladakh comes to life during these festivities wherein the natives gather around to become a part of the celebrations. Monasteries of Ladakh become venues of celebration where the locals perform famous folk dances, songs, and dramas of the region. Some of the popular festivals in Ladakh are -

Hemis Festival: Hemis festival is an important festival of Ladakh organised in June to celebrate the birthday of Guru Padmasambhava, who founded Tantric Buddhism in Tibet. Monks can be seen wearing sparkling brocade robes and colourful face masks. They perform a dance-drama displaying the life, principles, and mission of the Guru.

Thiksey, Karsha and Spituk Gustor: This two-day festival is celebrated in different months every year in Thiksey, Karsha, and Spituk. These Gustors signify the victory of good over evil. The performers wear variety of masks while they perform, and these masks symbolise gods, goddesses, guardians, and protectors. As the festival comes to an end, the evils are figuratively killed, and their images are burned.

Dosmoche Festival: Celebrated in May in the regions of Liker, Deskit monastery, and Leh, this is one of the most renowned festivals of Ladakh. The courtyard of the Leh Palace is the venue to enjoy this two-day festival in Leh. It is celebrated in the beginning as well as at the end of the Tibetian Year. Monks make their offerings using crosses made of threads to turn evil and ghosts into protectors and guardians of people against natural calamities that might occur in the following year.

Ladakh Harvest Festival: The Ladakh Harvest Festival commences from 1st September and lasts for 15 days thereafter. The natives celebrate their rich diversity with enthusiasm and vigor. Locals take part in dance performances, wedding ceremonies, drama, music, and many other forms of art.

Climate in Ladakh

Summer season in ladakh.

Summer (April-June): With the mountains warming up and the land blooming, it is a tourist season in this region. The landscape is quite barren framed by the snow-capped mountains giving it a beauty that is like no other, making it best season to visit Leh . The lakes begin to melt (Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri) painting the landscape with beautiful colors. Travelling by road is a popular way to see this region. The Passes Khardung La and Chang La are popular routes to take granting breathtaking vistas to be captured by the cameras. The Rohtang and Baralacha Pass are an ideal way to complete the circuit. This is a trip of a lifetime and the best time to visit Leh by road , many traversing it on a motorbike consider it a rite of passage.

Monsoon Season in Ladakh

Monsoon (July-August): With the heavy rains and with all hilly terrains, this region too gets blocked. Tourism shuts down due to the landslides and the ‘moving’ earth. Even though there is a different sort of beauty granted to the region during this season, only tourists in four wheel vehicles brave this region.

Winter Season in Ladakh

Early Winter (September-October): This is the time for trekking and exploring the region on foot making it the b est time to visit Leh Ladakh . The cool mountain breeze begins to set into the region. Occasional snowfall lends the region a dreamy glow. This along with the water bodies turning the most alluring shades of blue, the region seems to transform into a dream land turning this time best season to visit Leh Ladakh .

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FAQ's of Ladakh

How long would it take to get acclimatized in ladakh.

The time taken for acclimatization differs from person to person. Usually oen must rest for one whole day even if you are feeling ok. Avoid alcohol for a minimum of 3 days, and increase your intake of water. The biggest cause of Acute Mountain Sickness is dehydration.

Where can I do white water rafting in Ladakh?

There are several tour operators in Leh that provide rafting packages to travellers on the thunderous rapids of Indus and Zanskar Rivers.

Where can I enjoy camping in Ladakh?

Travellers can stay in a camp in towns along Leh– Manali highway, trek on Chadar River, and expedition to Stok Kangri summit.

Why should I go for nature walks in Ladakh?

An acclimatisation walk for a day or two is recommended for beginners looking to trek or visit higher altitudes in Ladakh.

What are famous treks in Ladakh?

Markha Valley trek, Chadar trek, Stok Kangri Trek, and Padum to Darcha trek are among some popular treks in Ladakh .

Is it safe to visit Ladakh?

Yes, it is safe to visit Ladakh. Ladakh is located in one of the safest parts of India, therefore it is safe to visit.

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• Best Time to Visit Ladakh: Discover the Finest Travel Season

The best time to visit Ladakh to explore the region at its finest is during summer, which lasts from June to September. Also known by the name ‘Little Tibet of India,’ Leh Ladakh is like a paradise during this time of the year. The pleasant atmosphere, clear sky, and sunny days make it a perfect time to explore the picturesque beauty of the region during summer. You can engage in various outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and white-water rafting during this season.

However, the exploration of the captivating landscape of Ladakh is not just limited to summer. As the region goes through different seasons throughout the year, each offers its own unique opportunities for adventure. From traversing through the breathtaking natural vista to exploring the ancient monasteries and local culture, Ladakh will make your adventure unforgettable any time of the year. Nevertheless, it’s crucial to choose the season that suits you best.     

1. Summer (June to September)

2. monsoon (july to september), 3. autumn (september to october), 4. winter (november to february), 5. spring (march to may), temperatures in ladakh by month, rainfall in ladakh by month, what is the best time to visit ladakh, peak tourist season in ladakh, discover the must-see destinations of leh ladakh, travel tips for the ladakh tour, cultural exploration: festivals and event calendar, explore different seasons in ladakh.

Ladakh, a.k.a. ‘Little Tibet’ is a land of enchanting natural beauty and dramatic landscape. This Himalayan region experiences five major seasons throughout the year. Each season comes with different atmospheric characteristics offering different travel experiences. To learn more about the seasons, delve into the details below.

Summer is considered the best time to visit Ladakh and lasts from June to September. This season is popular among the tourists. During these months, the weather is most favorable with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). It is an ideal time for outdoor adventures such as cycling, biking, trekking, camping, and so on. 

While Ladakh is known for its arid climate, it does experience a mild monsoon season. This season extends from July to September and coincides with summer. Rainfall is minimal compared to other regions of India, but occasional showers may block the roads. During occasional downpours, the region also experiences mudslides, imposing difficulty in traveling. When it’s not raining, the sky is clear with sunny days. The average temperature during this time is similar to that of summer, i.e. 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).

Autumn can also be considered as another best time to visit Leh Ladakh. Stretching from September to October, autumn comes with a delightful transition from summer to winter. The landscape transforms into a palette of golden hues as the leaves change color. The terrain is vibrant with picturesque visuals. The average temperature during this season ranges from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). 

With the start of November, winter comes into action lasting until February. The region is covered in snow with stunning visuals of the towering snow-capped mountains. The average temperature during this time of the year falls below 0°C (32°F). During winter most parts of the region become inaccessible by road, and the areas become quieter and less crowded.

With the end of winter, spring rejuvenates the vista with vibrant blossoms. Spring lasts from March to May and kicks in with a burst of flora throughout the landscape. Apricot and almond trees are common sights during this season. It is also an ideal time for photography enthusiasts. The weather is much milder than in winter with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F).

What to Expect from Ladakh Travel in Each Season?

As each season has different characteristic features, your travel experience will also vary accordingly. Below are some pointers that give you a glimpse of what each season has in store for your Ladakh tour:

• Mild and pleasant daytime temperatures
• Accessible roads to major attractions
• Vibrant landscapes with blooming flowers and lush greenery
• Peak tourist season with crowded popular destinations
• Ideal time for trekking, biking, and outdoor activities
• Cultural festivals in monasteries are in full swing
• Minimal rainfall
• Ocassional showers can lead to blocked roads and landslides
• Lush green landscape with various shades of green
• Fewer tourists due to the inconvenience of occasional rain showers
• Transition from summer to winter with cooler temperature
• Stunning fall foliage with golden hues
• Pleasant weather and fewer crowds
• Ideal for trekking and exploring remote monasteries
• Clear skies for stargazing
• Snow-covered landscape adds pristine charm to the entire vista
• Extremely cold weather conditions with limited road access to some areas due to heavy snowfall
• Engage in winter adventure activities such as trekking, ice festivals, and wildlife watching
• Opportunity to experience the region in a quieter environment
• Limited tourist infrastructures, but offers less crowded accommodations
• The landscape rejuvenates with fresh blossoms.
• Apricot and almond tree blossoms make the terrain picturesque
• Perfect for landscape photography
• Treks at lower altitudes become accessible
• Relatively smaller crowd than in the summer

Let’s look at the weather in Ladakh month by month. The table below shows the average temperature and rainfall, giving you a clear picture of how the weather changes in the region.

The unique terrain of Ladakh is primarily characterized by a cold and dry climate, resulting in low rainfall in the region. Located in the rainshadow region of the Himalayas, Ladakh typically experiences minimal precipitation, usually below 10 mm, except during the months of July and August. The table below offers a comprehensive analysis of Ladakh’s annual precipitation.

The live graph and current forecast containing rainfall, temperature and winds frequency in Ladakh region will help you plan your trip better:

The most favorable time to visit Ladakh for most travelers is during summer, the months from June to September. During this period, the weather is at its most pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Summer allows you to access all major attractions and engage in a variety of activities, including trekking and biking. The landscape is revived with vibrant colors suitable for photography. Besides, summer is another best time for Leh Ladakh is autumn and spring. Both these seasons offer the enchanting landscape of Ladakh and allow you to explore the terrain in relatively quieter surroundings. 

The peak tourist season in Ladakh is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, Ladakh experienced the highest influx of tourists. Because of the milder temperature and clear view of the landscape, this season is more appealing to travelers. Several factors contribute to the popularity of Ladakh in the summer. Besides the captivating natural beauty, it’s a good time to explore the cultural festivals and events during this season. The roads leading to Ladakh from other parts of India are also open, making it accessible to a broader range of visitors.    

Ladakh is a crown jewel of India with fascinating destinations to visit. This is the northernmost part of India and is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, monasteries, and unique culture. In your journey, consider exploring some of these popular tourist destinations:

• Leh : It is the capital city of Ladakh and is a hub for its rich culture, tradition, and history.
• Pangong Lake : It is an iconic high-altitude lake most known for its alluring shades of blue. It is also famous for camping and stargazing.
• Tso Moriri Lake : This is in a remote region surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It offers a scenic view and a peaceful ambiance for relaxation.
• Nubra Valley : You can visit Nubra Valley via Khardung La Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in the world. 
• Hemis Monastery : This is the largest monastery in Ladakh situated about 45 km from Leh. It is famous for the Hemmis Festival and its ancient architecture.
• Zanskar Valley : It is popular for its trekking route and offers the exploration of the beautiful village of Padum.
• Alchi Monastery : It is famous for its exceptional artwork and is one of the oldest monasteries in Ladakh listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Thiksey Monastery : Nestled on a hill, this monastery offers panoramic views of the Indus Valley.
• Spituk Monastery : This monastery is famous for its annual Gustor Festival and offers a serene setting for exploration.
• Chang La Pass : This is another high-altitude pass in Ladakh known for its pristine beauty and the Chang La Baba Temple.

These are just a few of the many wonderful Ladakh attractions for exploration. In addition, you may also check out some of our exceptional Ladakh tours as mentioned below:

• Ladakh Tour with Nubra Valley and Pangong Lake
• Ladakh Extended Tour
• Impressions of Ladakh   

These expert travel tips will help to explore the place with ease. Therefore, consider incorporating these tips to get the best out of your adventure:

• Plan your trip in advance. Make sure to book accommodations and transportation early, especially during the peak tourist season.
• As Ladakh is situated at around 3,500 m (11,500 ft.), acclimatization to the altitude is essential.
• Dress in layers and pack thin or thick clothes as per the season you are traveling.
• Use sun protection such as sunglasses, hats, or sunscreen.
• Stay hydrated.
• Be aware of altitude sickness in the Himalayas and apply necessary preventive measures.
• Respect the local culture.
• Be prepared for changing weather and road conditions.
• Make sure to carry all necessary permits and travel documents.
• Travel responsibly and do not litter the place. 

Explore Ladakh in the best way possible with these top things to try in Leh Ladakh , and make your dream adventure an epic success!

With the majority of local people following Buddhism in Ladakh, they celebrate various Buddhist festivals and events with utter joy. Some of the most revered festivals and events are:

• Ladakh Festival : This festival is celebrated annually in September to boost tourism during the tourist season or the best time to visit Ladakh. The celebration involves traditional music, dance, and a variety of local cuisines.
• Hemis Festival : This is an annual celebration held in July at Hemis Monastery featuring masked dance performances by monks.
• Stok Festival : It is celebrated in August at the Stok Palace as a part of a cultural celebration.
• Nubra Valley Festival : It is celebrated every September in Nubra Valley marked by the celebration of local culture and tradition.
• Lamayuru Gustor Festival : This Buddhist festival is celebrated in October at the Lamayuru Monastery.
• Losar Festival : It is a Ladakhi New Year celebrated in December or January with joyous music and dance.
• Thiksey Gustor Festival : It is celebrated in October at Thiksey Monastery featuring mask dances and rituals.
• Saka Dawa Festival : Celebrated in May or June, this festival marks the birth of Buddha, his enlightenment, and death.

The best time to visit Ladakh may not be the same for everyone, and we can assist you in determining which season best suits your adventure preferences. Join hands with Himalayan Glacier LLC and embark on an epic journey to Ladakh. With our expertise and dedication, we ensure that your Ladakh experience is not only memorable but also transformative. Our team of experts and Ladakh tour guides, boasting decades of experience, will ensure you make the most of your trip. Prioritizing your safety and comfort, Himalayan Glacier will help you discover the enchantment of Ladakh. Contact our team of experts via WhatsApp at ( +1-410-307-00 07) for more details.

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• What is the best time/season to visit Leh Ladakh?
• Ladakh Tourism Guide
• January 22, 2023 May 29, 2023

What is the best time to visit Leh Ladakh? This is the question that every traveller wants to ask before planning his visit to Ladakh. Ladakh can be visited in all four seasons, 12 months a year, but depending upon the choice and fitness of traveller, one can plan tour based on the seasons.

Seasons in Ladakh

• June to September: Summer season (Peak tourist season/Best time to visit Ladakh with family, children and elderly) (Day temperature: 20 to 25 degrees C, Night temperature: 5 to 10 degrees C)
• October to November: Light cold (Lean tourist season) (Day temperature: 5 to 20 degrees C, Night Temperature: 5 degrees C to -5 degrees C)
• December to March: Extreme cold (Leanest season/tourists visit only to experience cold/photography/adventure) (Day temperature: -5 degrees C to 5 degrees C, Night Temperature: -10 degrees C to -30 degrees C (Temperature at some places dip even below minus 30 degrees Celsius. Drass region of Ladakh is the coldest inhabited place in India and second coldest in world after Siberia)
• April to May: Light cold and sometime warm days but cold nights (Tourists start visiting Ladakh. Temperature starts rising to pleasant after mid-April) (Day temperature: 5 to 15 degrees C, Night temperature: -5 to 10 degrees C)

The best time to visit Ladakh depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to engage in. Ladakh is known for its rugged landscapes, high-altitude passes, and unique cultural experiences. However, due to its high altitude and extreme weather conditions, the accessibility and climate vary throughout the year. Here’s an overview of the different seasons in Ladakh:

• Summer (June to September): This is the peak tourist season in Ladakh when the weather is most favorable. The temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) during the day, and the region experiences clear skies and sunshine. Most roads, including the famous Manali-Leh Highway and Srinagar-Leh Highway, are open during this time, allowing easy access to Ladakh. This season is ideal for outdoor activities, such as trekking, camping, and visiting high-altitude lakes like Pangong Tso and Tso Moriri .
• Autumn (September to October): Autumn in Ladakh is characterized by pleasant daytime temperatures and colder nights. The landscapes are adorned with golden hues as the vegetation starts to change. The tourist crowd decreases compared to summer, making it a good time to visit if you prefer fewer tourists.
• Winter (November to February): Ladakh experiences extremely cold weather during winter, with temperatures dropping below freezing point. Many high-altitude passes and roads, including the Manali-Leh Highway and Srinagar-Leh Highway, are closed due to heavy snowfall, making it inaccessible by road. However, if you are an adventure enthusiast and well-prepared for the harsh conditions, you can witness the mesmerizing frozen landscapes and enjoy activities like ice skating, winter trekking, and the famous Chadar Trek on the frozen Zanskar River.
• Spring (March to May): Spring is another good time to visit Ladakh, as the region starts to come alive after the winter. The temperatures gradually rise, and the snow starts melting, resulting in lush green valleys and blooming flowers. The roads to Ladakh gradually open up, but some remote areas may still be inaccessible. Spring is suitable for photography enthusiasts and those interested in witnessing the cultural festivals that take place during this time, such as the Hemis Festival.

It’s important to note that Ladakh’s high altitude requires acclimatization, regardless of the season you visit. Adequate rest, hydration, and gradual ascent are essential to prevent altitude-related health issues. Consulting a medical professional before your trip is advisable.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Ladakh depends on your preferences, interests, and the experiences you seek.

Also read: Top places to visit in Ladakh

Hotels, Guest Houses and Camps

Most of the hotels and guest houses (99%) remain shut during winter season in Ladakh as very few tourists visit this valley during this time period. Also, maintenance of hotels is very difficult in winters. Keeping things functioning, especially water (drinking/toilet) becomes impossible as everything gets freeze in extreme cold. Keeping the rooms warm is another challenge.

Hotels remain closed between October and April. While hotels start opening in mid-April when temperature starts rising, the camps (tents) in Nubra valley too start accommodating guests at the same time but Pangong and Tso Moriri (Korzok) being colder than Leh and Nubra invite guests to its tents in May or afterwards. However, depending on the weather conditions (temperature), sometime tents at Pangong Tso are pitched after April 20.

For general/family sightseeing:

April 25 to September 30: Late April is the time of onset of summer season in Ladakh valley. This is the perfect time to visit Ladakh for general sightseeing and enjoy both weather and landscapes. This is the time when about 90% of the total tourists visits the valley. If you cannot bear the extreme cold of Ladakh, then this is the best time to plan your holiday tour. However, if you want to enjoy the light cold, year can come in early April also. Most hotels of Ladakh will remain shut in first half of the April month.

For winter photography/snowfall/winter life

If you want to see snowfall and capture some beautiful snow-clad valley views in your camera and also want to experience the winter life, then December to March is the best time to visit Ladakh. During this period under the extreme cold conditions you can see entirely frozen Pangong Lake, Tsomoriri Lake, Zanskar River and all water sources. This is the best time for expeditions, Chadar Trek (walking on Frozen Zanskar River), photography, snowfall sighting, snow leopard tours, some skiing and trekking.

Also Read: Things to do in Ladakh in winters

Visiting Ladakh by Flight/Air/Airplane

One can land in Ladakh by airplane throughout the year. Air service remains open even during extreme winter season i.e. December to March. When both road links (Srinagar-Leh and Manali-Leh) are blocked following winter snowfall, flight service is the only mode of transport for both local occupants and tourists to reach Leh, the main city of Ladakh.

Visiting Ladakh by road

Travelling via road to Ladakh has its own charm and adventure. A large number of travellers prefer road journey over flight due to beautiful landscapes enroute. If you are opting for Delhi-Manali-Leh route, you can visit Manali, Rohtang pass, Keylong, Jispa, Darcha, Baralacha, Sarchu , Morre Plains, Taglang la and many more attractions including five high mountain passes. The highway opens anytime in May month (sometime even in early June). If you are booking Manali-Leh Ladakh jeep safari (road trip by SUV) in advance, then booking it after 31 May is safe. Similarly one can visit Sonamarg, Zojila pass, Drass, Kargil, Lamayuru and more attractions if Srinagar-Leh route is chosen. Srinagar-Leh road generally opens in April month. If making a round trip (Delhi-Manali-Leh-Srinagar or in reverse direction) then June to mid October is the best time. As airfare to Ladakh is very expensive during peak season, some adventure enthusiasts (or families) prefer jeep safari over the flight.

Current Weather, Temperature and Snowfall Status in Ladakh

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Best Time to Visit Ladakh – A Complete Travel Guide

If you asked when is the best time to visit Ladakh, my answer would be that it depends on you. Let me explain. The best time to visit any place is different for every person. I am basing this on assumption on the fact that not everyone is looking for the same thing. Other factors like budget, mode of travel, etc also come into the picture.

With that being said, there is a certain time of the year when every tourist destination receives the majority of its visitors. In the case of Ladakh, it is the months from June to September that are considered as the best time to visit. But will that suit you as well? If yes, then which month is the best? Read on to find out.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Ladakh

Ladakh presents a different color in every season. Every month brings its own set of surprises and its own set of delights. It has a little bit for everyone; from adventure seekers to photographers, to people looking for a bit of solitude to even families looking for a fun vacation.

It is that forbidden mysterious land that opens its doors for visitors only for a few months and then shies away under a thick white sheet of snow. Deciding on the best time to visit Ladakh can be a little confusing so let me break it down month by month.

Please note that in this article, I will only talk about the best time to visit Ladakh. For other details like how to reach, what to see, where to stay, and public transport services, please take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Leh Ladakh – Complete Travel Guide .

The temperature that I am mentioning below is the historical average in Leh City. Depending on the time of day, it will be different. High altitude areas like Pangong Lake and passes en route will be way colder than this. Please remember that during the night, the temperature here can go down to as low as 40 °c.

Ladakh in January to March

Until the month of March, winter in Ladakh remains at its peak. The temperature at night can drop to as far as minus 20 degrees Celsius.

January and February is the best time if you want to plan a trip to visit Ladakh in winter. All the lakes including Pangong and Moriri are completely frozen at this time. The famous Chadar trek also happens around this time only.

You cannot camp at Pangong Lake in winter though. There will be no campsites available and you will have to look for a guest house in either Durbuk, Tangtse, Spangmik, Man, or Merak. If you did not find accommodation, you will have to return to Leh after making a day trip to the lake.

Since all hotels are not operational at this time, you will have to call ahead and inquire. A few hotels remain open in winters as well but you will have to make your bookings in advance.

Running water may not be available everywhere as the water in taps freezes. Hot water will be presented to you but in buckets. Please check with your hotel about this before booking your stay.

Electricity too is limited to only a few hours of the day. It is not an ideal time to go unless you are capable of handling the extremely cold weather.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: -10 °c Minimum and 15 °c Maximum
• Clothes Needed: Heavy woolens, caps, windproof jacket, warm socks, thermals

Ladakh in April

Come April and everyone who is planning a trip to Ladakh that year starts to get anxious, waiting for the highways to open. Snowfall stops and summer starts to step in.

BRO continues to work clearing the snow and both the roads remain closed for most of the month of April. It is towards the end of April that Srinagar Leh highway is declared open but that depends on the weather and is not always the case. Sometimes the date can even get pushed up to early May.

Hotels and guest houses start to open up preparing for the tourist season. The only way to reach Ladakh in April is either by flight or by Srinagar Leh road towards the end of the month.

April is not really an ideal time to go, though. You do not get to see any snow and the weather will be freezing cold. You may have trouble finding accommodation and will miss traveling on Manali Leh or Srinagar Leh highway.

By Late April, all the lakes including Pangong and Moriri would have completely melted to their natural blue. The roads towards Nubra and Pangong are open this month. However, the route may get closed temporarily if it snows at Khardung La or Chang La.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 5 °c Minimum and 25 °c Maximum
• Clothes Needed: Woolens, caps, windproof jacket, thermals

Ladakh in May

The month of May marks the beginning of the Tourist season in Ladakh. Srinagar Leh highway is declared open either by late April or early May. The opening of the Manali Leh route depends on how fast BRO is able to clear the snow but it is usually towards the end of the month.

Hotels and guesthouses would have become operational completely. There would still be a lot of snow around, especially towards the top of the peaks.

The roads at this time are usually in a bad situation as BRO starts the restoration work. Visiting Ladakh this time would mean that you either go there by Air or take the Srinagar Leh Highway in traveling early in the month.

If you want to include the Manali route as well, plan towards the end. Before doing so, make sure the road is open for tourists. You can check this post, Manali Leh Highway & Road Conditions where I post updates regularly.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 13 °c Minimum and 28 °c Maximum
• Clothes Needed: Regular summer clothes, light woolens, caps, windproof jacket

Ladakh in June

The tourist season by this time is at its full peak. All the hotels and guest houses would be completely functional. This is the time to go if you also want to catch some snow at the passes on Manali Leh highway.

The roads however are still not completely restored and you may encounter a lot of rough patches on your way. You also will encounter a lot of water streams on the way as the snow starts to melt. By end of June, the region around Srinagar and Manali also starts getting pre-monsoon showers.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 17 °c Minimum and 30 °c Maximum

Ladakh in July

This is one of the perfect months for the Ladakh trip if you can make it in the first half before Monsoon hits the Himalayan region. Roads are in near perfect condition and all of Ladakh is open for visitors including some of the internal roads like the Wari La Pass route.

Ladakh at this time is filled with tourists and the valleys will present you with grand vistas all around. If visiting in the latter part of the month, be ready to handle rains on the way.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 16 °c Minimum and 35 °c Maximum

Ladakh in August

If greenery is on your mind, then this is the time to go. You may encounter rain but it is mostly limited to areas around Kullu, Manali, Srinagar, and Sonamarg.

Ladakh is in a rain shadow area and experiences very little rain. With all the global warming though, things have started to change and it can rain even in Ladakh sometimes. The unfortunate cloud burst incident of 2010 is an example of that.

Once you cross Baralacha La on the Manali Leh route and Zoji La on the Srinagar Leh highway, you ideally enter a rain shadow area where there is either very little or no rain at all.

If you are prepared and do not mind the rain, traveling at this time will present you with lush green valleys. You should also be for a lot of slush, landslides, and puddles. If the weather turned worst, the roads can also be blocked temporarily until they are cleared.

For a road trip by bike at this time, make sure you waterproof everything.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 18 °c Minimum and 35 °c Maximum

Ladakh in September

The month of September is a perfect time for a Ladakh visit.  Monsoon would be gone but would have left plenty of greenery behind in Kashmir and Himachal. Ladakh will be blossoming with colors everywhere.

Hotels and guesthouses will be all functional and roads in near perfect condition. The entire Ladakh brims with astonishing beauty at this time. If you were lucky and traveling after 15th September, you may also catch a snowfall at the top of any of the passes en route.

Ladakh in October

October marks the beginning of the winter season. Cold starts to settle everywhere. High altitude regions already start experiencing zero degree temperatures at night and there is a high chance that it may snow anytime.

Hotels and guest houses mostly would have closed already by late October. The top of almost high altitude passes would have received snowfall.

Srinagar Leh route remains open for most of October. Manali Leh Highway however closes around the 10th of the month. If planning a road trip this month, make sure you plan your itinerary in a way that you cross the Manali route maximum before the 10th.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: 0 °c Minimum and 20 °c Maximum

Ladakh in November & December

Come November, the Srinagar Leh road closes and Ladakh gets totally cut off by road. A trip at this time can only be planned by flight. Srinagar Leh route may remain open in November sometimes but it is not advised at all to travel on.

The month of December is mostly the same as November. Both these months are probably the worst time to go. The weather will be very cold, vistas will be dull and you will not get to enjoy the trip.

Winter trip means snow all around which is not the case in November and December. Leh City in fact will be deprived of snow at this time.

• Average Temperature in Leh City: -7 °c Minimum and 10 °c Maximum

So depending on what I described above, below is a summary of the best time to visit Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Road

The best time to visit Ladakh by road is the months of June, early July, and September.

Srinagar Leh highway opens sometime in April and closes by mid-November. Manali to Ladakh opens by late May and will close by Mid October.

The first few weeks of this time will present you with highly damaged roads that may even get temporarily closed. Later few weeks towards closing will always pose a risk of snowfall at top of the passes which may close the roads again. July and August will pose the problem of monsoon.

So by road, you should choose a time when the roads are stable and you can cover both the highways. Start from either Manali or Srinagar and end the trip at the other place, completing the Ladakh circuit.

Also read: Srinagar Leh Highway Route Guide and Road Map

Best Time to Visit Ladakh for Photography

The best time to visit Ladakh by photography is the months of July, August, and September. But it actually depends on what you are interested in shooting. If greenery is on your mind then your best bet would be August and September. During the monsoon, the valleys of Manali, Kashmir, and Lahaul are at full blossom and a delight to shoot.

If you do not want to risk the rain, the best time to visit Ladakh for Photography would be September. Monsoon would have just left the valley but you will still find plenty of green around Manali and Kashmir.

Go to Suru Valley and Zanskar and you will have grass and leaves changing colors from green to orange and even red as the fall season progresses. The same is the case with Nubra valley as you proceed towards Turtuk Village .

If you want to shoot a white Ladakh, then you should plan in late January or early February. On an overall basis, September is the best time to visit Ladakh for photography. Ladakh in September means multiple colors all around under a deep blue sky and you will just love what you shoot at this time.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Bike

Late June, early July, and September is the best time to visit Ladakh by Bike. Any earlier than this will see you struggle on bad broken roads.

August will have you getting drenched in rain as the Monsoon at this time is at its full swing which also means more furious water crossings. Any later than September will be too cold to be riding on motorcycles to Ladakh with a risk of snow and black ice.

Also read: Manali Leh Highway Route Guide and Road Map

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Car

The best time to visit Ladakh by Car is from June to September. But it depends on what do you exactly mean by Car and what would you rather prefer.

If your car is a Sedan or Hatchback, you should only plan in early June and September. By this time, there are no chances of any rain or landslides, water crossings are not that furious or deep, and road conditions are a little better.

If you are in a 4X4 or SUV, then you can go anytime between June and September. If you want to go offloading and want to drive on broken roads, do it in May after Srinagar Leh highway opens or early June as soon as the Manali Leh highway is declared open.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh with Family

The best time to visit Ladakh with family is from July to early September. If you are traveling by Air and hiring a taxi in Ladakh with family, then any month between July and September is an ideal time to go.

If you are however planning to drive on your own, then do it in early June or September. You of course do not really want their hearts pounding as you take the car across a running water stream, or through slush on a narrow road, or getting stuck somewhere after the road is closed due to a recent landslide.

The weather after September 15th gets a little cold to be enjoying with your kids and elders. For more details, please take a look at How to Plan a Trip to Ladakh with Family .

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Flight

The best time to visit Ladakh by flight is from May to September. But this is open for discussion as well. Going by air will pretty much come down to what you are looking for and when can you go.

Ladakh is accessible by Air throughout the year. You always have the option of hiring a cab there for local sightseeing. If snow is what you want, visit in January or February. Otherwise, any time from May to September will be ideal to be in Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh for Honeymoon

The best time to visit Ladakh for a honeymoon is in April, September, or early October. The weather at this time will be just perfect for a honeymooning couple.

Other than this, you can actually go anytime between April to Mid-October if you are catching a flight. The only problem is that the sun in June, July, and August is a little too harsh for a honeymoon.

For a road trip, September is a good time if you want a trip with very less adventure, or anytime from July to September if your spouse is as adventurous as you are.

Best Time to visit Ladakh for Snow

The best time to visit Ladakh to see snow is in late January, February, or early March for a winter trip and May, early June, late September, and early October for a summer trip.

January to early March is when the region is buried under a thick sheet of snow. The lakes of Pangong and Tso Moriri will be completely frozen at this time.

If you only want to see a little bit of snow and do not want to plan a winter trip, you should plan in May or early June. This is when you will definitely find some snow at the top of the passes. You can also plan in late September or early October and may even catch a snowfall at this time.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh by Public Transport

If you are planning to travel by Public transport, you should visit Ladakh in July, August, or early September. The buses from Manali and Srinagar to Leh and other internal areas of Ladakh remain available during this period only.

This is also the time when the entire valley is filled with tourists. If not a bus, you have the highest chance of boarding a shared taxi within your budget in these months.

There will be very little waiting time anywhere. Even if you cannot find a bus or taxi, you will still have the option of hitchhiking.

Also read: Complete List of All Tourist Attractions in Ladakh

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh via Manali

Manali Leh highway opens in early June. So anytime between 15 th June till 15 th July and September would be best to travel on this road.

The first two weeks of June will put you on bad roads with a possibility of a temporary shutdown due to restoration work. August will see you getting drenched in rain and may even come across a landslide. October onwards will have you encounter extreme cold with a high chance of snowfall at Baralacha La.

Best Time to Visit Leh Ladakh via Srinagar

The best time to visit Leh Ladakh via Srinagar is in May, June, early July, and September. It is pretty much the same deal as the Manali Leh highway. The only difference is that this road opens a month earlier and closes a month later.

An ideal time from Srinagar would be between Mid May to early July and September.; for the same reasons that I mentioned for Manali Leh road. Rains can play havoc around Zoji La so late July and August are best avoided.

Also read: Is Srinagar Leh Highway Safe for Tourists?

 Best Time to Visit Ladakh on a Budget

If planning a budget trip to Ladakh, the best time to go would be anywhere between July and September. All hotels are open during this time and you have a higher possibility of finding accommodation within your price range.

Public transport services too will be all operational and you can easily find a Bus or shared taxi towards any desired destination. Go any earlier or later than this and you may struggle to find budget accommodation and transport.

Best Season to Visit Ladakh

The season of summer and fall are the best to visit Ladakh. The weather in summer is suitable for all kinds of tourists and will make the journey pleasurable.

Go there in September during the fall season and you will witness the natural beauty at its best. You will see beautiful colors within the shades of grey of a cold desert under a deep blue sky. It is not just the trees, leaves, and flowers that you will find colors in, but also in the mountains.

Also read: How to Plan a Trip to Ladakh by Public Transport

Best Month to Visit Ladakh

June and September are the best months for a trip to Ladakh.

Best Time to Visit Ladakh in Winter

Late January, February, and early March are the best time to visit Ladakh in winter.

I think I have covered the topic of the best time to visit Ladakh from every aspect here, and I hope this information was of help. If you have any further questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below, or at our Community Forum , and I will be happy to answer.

Vargis.Khan

Not much to write about me really except for that I love to travel around whenever I can and to wherever I can. This blog is just a small attempt to share my travel experiences with the world. Hope you like it !!!

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How to plan a trip to leh ladakh, srinagar leh highway status 2024 – 2025, zojila pass road status and condition 2024 –..., 126 comments.

Thank you for sharing this info. I am planning a trip to Ladakh next month. Hope my trip will be successful.

Have a safe trip bhai !!!

I have decided to visit Ladakh via Srtinagar and back via Manali in between last week of July and first week of August with my family. What is your opinion please?

Bhai if possible push it by a few weeks. You know how monsoon has been so far in the year. Heavy rains everywhere

Hi Vargis Bhai, I have planned for Ladakh tour via Srinagar and willing to back via Manali from last week of July to first week of August with my family. Will it be suitable?

hi khan bhai, i am solo starting from Jammu to ladakh and then via Manali to chdigarth. apoox 13 days travel. should i start from Jammu on 1st September or last week of September. i am asking as my train is weekly once from Mumbai.

Hi Sanju Bhai – September 1st week will be a better choice

hi khan bhai, i am solo starting from jammu to ladakh and then via manali to chdigarth. apoox 13 days travel. should i start from jammu on 1st september or last week of setember. i am asking as my train is weely once from mumbai.

Hi Sanju Bhai – September 1st week will be a better choice

Hi Vargis, I’m planning a car trip to Ladakh in Aug 1st week with family. It’s a duster 2 wheel drive. I plan to go from the Manali side, and come back from the same route as I don’t intend to go to Zojila and Srinagar. Will it be raining too heavily? Or is it just mild rains which is manageable to drive. While I’ve a lot of driving experience, but I’ve driven only a bit in mountains. Regards, Amit

Hi Amit – Hard to say right now to be honest, will depend on the weather. There could be heavy rains on Manali Leh stretch, especially between Manali and Sarchu.

Thank you so much for writing such exceptional vlogs. Please help me in one thing: may I visit Ladakh from Manali side in early October with sedan car with my wife and 11 years old child?

Thank you, Sujit. Visiting in early October is doable. Which car do you have?

Dear Vagiskhan ji, your way of explaining the touring is amazing. You covered all the points of all sections of people. Your article is like a data set about Ladakh tourism . Thank you so much ji. We four people planning to be there in September last week by public transport or by rental car from Delhi. We are little bit confused in between the two. Our motto of journey is to enjoy the Himalayas inch by inch…. In that way rental taxi seems to be the best I believe… Kindly give your opinion Ji …

Me and My friend are planning trip to Leh ladhak between May last week and June First Week, we have heard that its very cloudy in this period of time, So whats your suggestion ?

No, it’s not. I am myself planning a trip at this time

Excellent blog Vargis bhai .. just happened to stumble upon it and am enjoying reading the details you have provided. I am planning to visit Ladakh this year and finding it difficult to choose between late May (kids vacations so can easily leave them with parents) and late September (best time scenery wise). Just hoping I won’t miss much if I travel in May

Thanks, Nilesh Bhai. May end will be a better option with kids.

Excellent detailed travelogue

Thank you !!!

Hi Vargis, I am planning a bike trip to Leh Ladakh via Srinagar at 1st week of August with my wife. Is this a good time to visit Ladakh or should I wait till September.

Hi Robin – It will be best to wait until September

Hi – we are planning a trip around this Diwali. While I understand the cold part, not sure why you say November is the worst part to visit. Can you pls elobrtare?

Is it safe to travel Leh in a hatchback with a family of three?we are planning the first time.is the road from nubra to pangong good?is the month of September good for budget travelling

[…] You can travel in early October as well but can be a little risky. Nakee La starts receiving snow towards the end of September and so do the other 4 passes. Traveling in October means that there will be a high chance of the road getting blocked by snow, leaving you will be stranded. For more details, please take a look at When is the Best time to visit Ladakh. […]

I have gone through your writings. Excellent! We are planning to to Ladakh next year. We are senior citizens from Kerala trying to drive down

Hi, I have been following your blog on Leh Manali highway. As the clearing work by BRO has started. Will it be accessible by 20th of May. I am planning to take Srinagar Leh for Leh and return from Leh to Manali

Yes it will be

Hi, You have wealth of information, feeling lucky. As you have said in earlier blogs that Manali leh route is inaccessible in May and opens in first week of June. Will it be different this year as it will be accessible by 20th May.

Thanks for your reply.

Hi Vineet – Chances are that yes it will be all open by 20th this year

Thanks a lot

Hi Vargis, We are planning for a bike trip 2 guys and one girl from manali to leh by bike on 13th june to 23rd june. Are the roads open or blocked ??Is it good time to go by bike. please let us know . And we are not going in any package groups so are there frequent garage shops on the way if anything happens to the bike ??

We are 9 pax. 4 couples and a single ladie. Ages between 45 and 70 years old. We want to travel to Ladack during Ladack Festival, in September. Please suggest us an itinerary from Delhi to Ladack, including Daramsala also. We want go by car and train and back Delhi by flight. Thanks Anabela Marinho

Hello Sir, Actually, we are (Couple) planning to visit Leh in Last week of March. Could you please guide for same.

Please read this Deepak.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/leh-ladakh-in-march/

Hi, Your travel blogs are very detailed and informative, useful for me as a solo traveler. Pls inform how long does it take to get necessary permits for specific tourist spots in Leh Ladakh

Thanks Thyagrajan. Only a couple of hours at most. Or you can just tell the hotel to arrange it for you.

Hi vargis, I will be thankful if you help me out here, four of us planning to visit Leh after 15th oct , will reach Srinagar by flight and then will head out to Leh and the other places like Pangong Nubra etc, then returning to Delhi from Leh by flight …. is it possible at that Time…..?????

Hi Vargis, I am awed reading your blog containing such a detailed info on Leh. A group of 4 of us are planning to visit Leh in the Last week of October. You said the best time to go for biking is till September. So is not OK if we try to bike in October last week? Cant we get a budget home stay and bike rent facilities at that time?

Hi Mukund – A trip in October will be great as well but since you are on bike, you would have to be prepared for cold weather. If you were planning after October 15th, you may also have to keep Manali Leh route out of your plans.

jammu tawi to srinagar road is full time open or not..i am planning to go by bus………i will come from delhi to jammu tawi by train,…then i want ti take public transport bus…srinagar to leh bus available??

Yes it is available

Hi Varis Bhai, Nubra to Pangong route via shyok in last week of July.. is it commutable? I heard Shyok river water is too high…

Hi Arindam Bhai – Sorry for replying late. Yes it is possible in July, shouldn’t be a problem.

Dear khan, you hv suggested in stead of booking travel co, hired car are available after landing. Can you suggest for staying arrangement in diff places

Hi Varghis bhai,

I am planning a Leh trip from 13 July to 25 July on motorbike. IS t his best time to visit Leh…considering there will be no rain?

There can be some rain around Kashmir Valley and Manali Deepu Bhai so please pack and prepare accordingly.

Hi Bhai, I am From Pune. me n my 3 friends planning for Leh trip in August (20-29) or October (10-18) by flight from delhi to Leh.. Which is most preferable dates?

And more are roads are open if we go from Manali or Srinagar?

Srinagar Leh road will be but Manali to Leh may get closed.

Hi Pranita – October 10-18 will be preferable. It will be a bit cold but number of tourists would definitely be less

Thanks for reply. But we are not getting tours on October. They are saying it’s not preferable and we don’t arrange in October. What to do ?

Why do you want to go with a tour company? Just fly into Leh and rent a taxi there. That will cost you much less.

Hi Vargis Bhai.. I am from Kerala Planning for a Solo bike ride from Chandigarh to Ladakh in the Month of September (Say from 8 to 17). I have R15 V3. Please advice if it is Ok with R 15? Can you please help me finalizing an itinerary for me for this schedule? Thanking you in advance. Manoj Daya

Remove the lower faring from the bike Manoj Bhai, rest should be fine. Please take a look at the following post about itinerary.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-travel-guide/

Hello Vargis bhai,

I’m very grateful for your blogs and info as it helped me a lot last year when i did Manali-Leh-Srinagar. Thanks a ton.

I’m planning for another ride this year and i have mentioned itinerary below. Kindly review once and let me know if you find any challenges or have any alternate suggestions. Your approval will be my ‘Final-Go’ 😛

Sept 22nd : Chandigarh – Narkanda 23rd : Narkanda – Chitkul 24th : Chitkul – Nako 25th : Nako – Kaza (via Geu mummy temple) 26th : Villages around Kaza 27th : Kaza – Chandartaal 28th : Chandartaal – Jispa 29th : Jispa – Leh 30th : Leh (get the ILP and all) 1st Oct : Leh – Tso Moriri 2nd : Tso Moriri – Hanle 3rd : Hanle – Umling La – Hanle 4th : Hanle to Leh 5th : Leh – Sonmarg 6th : Sonmarg to Gulmarg 7th : Gulmarg (Local) 8th : Gulmarg – Sheshnag (via Srinagar and Pahalgam) 9th : Sheshnag – Jammu/Udhampur 10th : Jammu/Udhampur – Chandigarh.

Please let me on the closure of any routes mentioned above if you think the dates doesnt go with the climate. Also if you find that Oct 1st or 2nd week is too late to ride on those roads due to snowfall or closing the road for usual traffic (Keeping in mind that roads can be closed anytime due to climate but still)

P.S : I have Royal enfield Himalayan with me to ride, just so that it can help you to analyse the status.

Please reply back with your opinion.

Thank you for all the assistance, Sagar

Hi Sagar Bhai,

1. Umling La in all probability won’t be allowed. 2. Leh to Sonamarg will be too long, you may have to break at Drass. 3. Add a day in Pahalgam. Gulmarg to Pahalgam and then trek to the lake will be tough. And it would be a shame to come to Pahalgam and not stay there a day.

Wow, Thank you so much for opening up my mind Vargis bhai 😛 So you mean to say – Umling la is not possible at all ? 🙁 Its not open for civilians yet thats what you meant ? – As i will be travelling to leh via Kaza and not Rohtang, then ILP is not necessary right ? But what if they ask me for ILP in Koksar and Sarchu check post ? Will they leave me without ILP ? – So you would suggest a day ride from Gulmarg straight to Sheshnag and next day stay at Pahalgam then leave towards chandigarh ?

1. As of last year and as of now Umling La is out of bound for tourists. We should know more once tourist season starts. 2. ILP is something u get for Ladakh in Leh. If you are asking Rohtang Permit, then you do not need it as you will come from Kaza. 3. No. Reach Pahalgam, check in to a hotel and plan the trek the next day. Keep a day in Pahalgam for sightseeing purpose.

Im from Malaysia and Leh has been in my bucket-list. I find your articles helpful and based on that I have outlined the below itinerary: Day 1- Fly fr Delhi to Leh. Walk around Leh in the evening. Day2- Leh & surrounding- Shanti Stuppa, Leh Palace & Thiksey Monastery Day 3- Leh- Nubra Valley- Khardungla Pass, Maitreya Buddha Statue, Hundur Sand dunes Day4: Nubra-Panggong Tso Day 5: Panggong Tso to Leh via Changla Pass Day 6: Leh- Basgo- Hall of Fame, Basgo Monastery, Magnetic Hill Day 7: Back to Delhi.

Intially planned end of May but flight cost was very high. Thinking of 20th April/ Aug 9th/ 9 Sept.

My question: Hows the itinerary and what would be the best time to go among the dates. Its for 2adults and 1 child (9yo).

Sorry long post. TQ

Hi Shamini – Yes the itinerary is perfect but only if you are going to rent a private taxi for entire trip. There is no public transport available on Nubra to Pangong direct route.

Hello. I am planning to visit Ladakh & Nubra valley in first week of March 2019. 1. Could you let me know what temperature will I get at that time? 2. Will I get running water in tap, electricity, and basic other necessities at that time? 3. Will I be able to stay at Nubra Valley at that time?

See this post please.

Hello bro… We r planning to visit ladhak on 30 dec to 2 jan is it a right time to visit there with family even i have one kid and he is 8 year old.. We r planning to come there by air from delhi…

Kindly give me a right feedback

Waiting for your kind reply??

Kunal Bhai it is not the best time but you can go if it is snow what you are after. Weather is very cold so please pack accordingly and take care of your little one. Keep him well covered and protected. Don’t let him run around and exhaust himself.

Hi friend, myself Aravind from Bangalore. We are planning to visit leh on first week of November. Is this the good time to visit considering climate and hotel availability?

November is not the best of the times to visit Ladakh but you can definitely plan a trip still. Just make sure that you pack well because it is really very cold over there right now.

We are 4 adults planning to go to Leh ladakh via Manali 1st week of October. I know this is not the right time to ask but it will be helpful if you could just suggest about the roads & things to carry.

Roads are all open and will be by first week of October. For things to carry, please see the following post.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/ladakh-checklist-things-to-carry-for-ladakh-trip/

Hi Vargis, we are 6 people planing to visit leh ladakh by next march end april first week. is it good time to visit there in march april.

Hi Sapan – You will have to take a flight as both the roads will still be blocked. It is a good time though since there won’t be many tourists around

Vargis bhai, which mobile network will work straight from jammu – leh – manali? i’ve reached jammu jammu today. pls suggest!!

Shubham Bhai only BSNL / MTNL will work at majority of the places. Rest all will be limited to only a few places.

Hello Vargis,

We are 5 adults planning to go for a trip to Leh ladakh from 11th aug- 18th august or 28th july – 4th august.

1.Could you just suggest if it the right time to visit all the sites in Leh enjoy the sight seeing. 2. Will it be raining heavily during this period? And will this spoil our sight seeing? 3. We are traveling by flight on both the dates.

Kindly give your suggestions.

Thank you, Shrddha

Hi Shrddha – If you are reaching Leh by flight and coming back the same way then you do not have to worry about rain. Ladakh is in rain shadow and it either rains very less there or not at all. Risk of rain is on the Manali – Leh and Srinagar – Leh route but you won’t be on those roads anyways.

Thank you for your reply. Yes we will be travelling by Flight. So as per your suggestion its a good time to go in mid August without worrying much about the rains and impact on the sight seeing , Right ?

Regards, Shrddha

And also since our tour is restricted to 6 days we are not visiting the Sham Valley and Shey village. Do you suggest we do these places or is it fine to drop them.

No, if you only have 6 days then drop these places.

Hi Shrddha – No one can really predict mother nature for sure. It is not supposed to be raining in Ladakh at all but then a cloudburst did happen in 2010. Historically though and with the exception of that one year, it doesn’t rain in Ladakh so much that it would disrupt your plan. If it does then there could be a temporary roadblock at top of the passes but that is usually for a few hours, at worst a day.

I m planning a trip to ley ladakh with my family via car. I wanted to see snow on both sides of the road, wanted to enjoy snow and wanted the journey to be safe. Roads should be clear and not broken as well. Plz recommend the month for the trip for both the routes( via manali and srinagar)?

If you want to see that much of snow that either go in April end or May first week as soon as Srinagar Leh highway opens. Or go in May end or June first week as soon as the Manali Leh highway opens. You will however only find this kind of snow either at Zojila top, or Rohtang Top or Baralacha La top, nowhere else.

You are welcome

Hello vargis bhai….thanks for this valuable information…I am planning my trip around 14th june via manali to leh road by hrtc bus….plz tell me whether hrtc bus service will be available at that time and will it be safe to travel manali leh highway around mid june ??

Hi Harry, It depends on how soon the road opens but in all probability, yes the HRTC bus will be available.

Thanks bhai

You are welcome Bhai

I would like to thank you for your blogs as they help a lot. After reviewing your blogs we planned for Saach Pass last year and now planning for Leh.

We are a family of 4, 2 kids age 8+ and 3+and planning to travel by safari in end of May via Srinagar Leh Highway.

Last year in Saach kids didn’t experienced any severe problem so we are daring this trip although we have bought oxi meter and cylinders for this trip

We would like to plan the trip for 10 days and would appreciate your advise

Regards Vani

Hi Sachin, Pleast take a look at the post below for some tips while traveling to Ladakh with kids. Please let me know if you need any other help.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/traveling-to-ladakh-with-children/

Hi Mr Vargis,

We are planning to visit Kashmir this coming September from 10 -19 and there will be 5 of us. FYI, we will arrive New Delhi on Sept 9 at 10.00 pm and will overnite in airport before we can catch early flight on the next morning.

Since this will be our first time travelling India/Kashmir, would like to seek your advise/opinion where should we drop first : i) Ladakh – then take bus from Ladakh to Srinagar and flight from Srinagar back to New Delhi or ii) Srinagar – then take bus to Leh (Ladakh) and fly back to New Delhi

– Is it enough time (10 days) to cover both Srinagar (Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam & Yusmarg) and Ladakh (Pangong Tso Lake, Tso Mariri, Khardungla Pass, Nubra Valley, Turtuk & visit old town city)? – Which route/way will be easier and cheaper? – Is there any place (above listed) is not suggested to visit in September? – is it possible for you to draft out rough itinerary for us for this trip?

Our flight from New Delhi to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) will be on 19 Sep at 11.10pm.

Hello Reita,

1. Landing in Sriangar, taking a bus to Ladakh and then flying out of Leh will be better. 2. 10 days is not at all sufficient to cover all the places. You must add more days to your travel plan. 3. Sriangar to Ladakh will be easier. 4. All can be visited in September. All areas are open. 5. 19 days as I suggested will not be enough. You will have to add more places. You will also have to hire a local taxi in Sriangar to cover Gulmarg, Yusmarg, Pahalgam etc. It will be hard to cover these by local buses.

Hi Vargis ji,

I am Sushruth from Mysore . My friends and I are planning to visit leh and Ladakh from 18th of June to 30th , we are more inclined towards hiring a self driven car ( may be zoom car) from Delhi and travel towards Leh. Is it advisable to self drive or do we need to accompany driver along with us , we are finding it difficult to decide on this factor since quite a few people have expressed that it is very difficult to drive on this highway . What do you advise ?

Hello Sushruth Ji – As long as you have decent enough driving experience including plains and hills both then it is Ok to drive on your own to Ladakh. Do keep in mind though that self drive rentals are only allowed till Leh. You will not be able to use it for sightseeing in Ladakh and will have to rent a loca taxi for that purpose.

Thank you. Aren’t the self driven cars allowed in nubra valley , khardung la and pangang so ?

You are welcome and no they are not.

hi, i am from haridwar, we (three families) are planing our trip in August (9th to 15th). is this a good time to travel leh ladakh and if you can please guide me about the iternary, places to visit n stay

August is the time of Monsoon but yes you can go. How are you traveling and for how many days?

Hello Vargis Bhai,

Thanks for the detail info. I am planning my trip based on your blog.

I am from Bangladesh and planning for a Bike trip from Manali to Leh with couple of my friends. We have two choices for the trip. 14th June to 24th June and 20th August to 30th August.

Which time will be perfect for us?? We are semi professional riders 😛 😛

Hello Islam Bhai, June will be better as August is the time for monsoon and that may create some problem.

Hi Vargis Bhai, happened to read about ‘black ice’. Is thia a real threat for riders? Have you personally experienced it? Am going on 1st week of september. Will you be around there that time?

Hello Dennis Bhai – I have experienced it but not while going to Ladakh. It was during a different trip in Himachal. Don’t worry, you won’t find any of it in September. Threat of black ice is usually early in the morning, after the sun comes up it melts away.

Sir, myself from Kerala. I am planning to visit Leh , by the the first of October. Bolero is my vehicle. I am planning around a15 days trip. I covered all your articles. Great help you are offering through this. Is that a good option, that start by 1st October or start by last week September like 25th .. ???

Thanks in advance

Hello Sarath – Timing is OK. I would recommend that you start by last week of September, take the Manali Leh highway to reach Ladakh and come back via Srinagar.

Thanks a lot, friend. I guess tyre sealants are not a practical option…

Hi Vargis, how are the possibilities of getting a puncture along ladakh route? 9Since enfield isnt tubeless) Is SLIME sealant a good option? getting conflicting opinions..curious to know what you say about slime/ any other sealant for tubed tyres. Thanks

Possibiity is high DJ Bhai. During my last trip to Ladakh, I had 9 flat tyres total in 12 days, almost one every day. Best way out is to carry 2-3 spare tubes, a foot pump and tools to replace the tubes. Go to any mechanic or puncture repair shop and learn how to replace the tube. Once you know how to do that, you are good to go. If you get a flat tire, replace the tube, pump the air in and be on your way. Get the puncture tube fixed at the next repair shop you come across.

Hi Vargis, Do you have any updates on latest weather status in leh, Nubra and Pangong. I am planning to do these 3 places from 10th to 18th July on bike. Should I expect lot of rains?

Hi Bhushan – No rain around Leh, Nubra and Pangong. All routes are open.

Hi, thanks for so vivid details.we have planned a trip of 11 days from 29th August to 8 September 2017 covering the full moon on 6 September.includes srinagar 1 day,kargil 1 day,leh 4 days,nubra 2 days,pangong 1 day,tsomoriri 1day. Is this period or planning good for visit leh.

Hi Sougata, Timing is good. Let me know how how you have prepared your itinerary, how and where you are traveling from and I can suggest if the planning is good as well.

Our journey starts by night stay at srinagar (29th August) then to kargil(30th August) and leh (31st August& 1st sep ),nubra ( 2 nd & 3rd sep), back to leh (4th sep),pangong (5th sep), pangong to tsomoriri (6th sep),back to leh (7th sep), morning flight to Delhi(8th sep).we don’t want to cover leh manali route so it ends at leh.

Adjust one day from somewhere in the itinerary between Pangong and Tso Moriri. It is actually a 2 days journey. Which route do you intend on taking?

drive to Tomoriri via Tsagala.Leave in the morning and drive to Chumathang stop at Upshi for passport checking. On the way visit Sumdah village and then to Tso-moriri.

I am a bit confused here. Do you want to go to Moriri from Pangong via Changthang or from Leh via Chumathang?

Hi ! We, a family of 5 adults and 2 children, will not start from Manali for Leh before 30th September this year. Can we get any Govt transport that time? Please advise.

You may be able to board the HRTC bus, provided that it has not already snowed anywhere on the highway. HPTDC bus service gets withdrawn by Sep 15th.

Hi, is there local bus transport available from Leh to khardungla?

yes you can take any bus going towards Nubra valley. Read the article below for more details.

https://vargiskhan.com/log/leh-bus-service-buses-ladakh/

Hi, is there JKRTC bus service available from Leh to Khardungla?

Thanks for this truly well written article!

Thank you for taking the time to drop a note Dennis.

Hi, I am from Kerala, planing for a solo Enfield Ladakh ride in Sept. Any riders like to join? [email protected]

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• Travel Tips + Advices

Ladakh travel tips — 11+ Ladakh tips & things to know before going to Ladakh

Ladakh, a region in the northern part of India, is a popular tourist attraction because it offers visitors stunning natural beauty, unique cultural experience, adventure tourism, and more. A visit to Ladakh is always an adventure, so be well-prepared yourself to have a wonderful time there. So, what you need to know before going to Ladakh or what to know when traveling to Ladakh? Let’s check out our Ladakh travel tips (Ladakh tips) with 11+ tips for visiting Ladakh, things you should know before going to Ladakh, things to know before going to Ladakh as follows!

• Leh Ladakh bike trip itinerary — How to spend 6 days in Ladakh by motorbike?
• Leh Ladakh bike trip blog — Ladakh bike trip guide & tips for first-timers
• Ladakh trip cost per person from Delhi — How much does Ladakh trip by bike cost?
• What to buy in Ladakh? — Top 9+ souvenirs & best things to buy in Ladakh
• Ladakh blog — How to plan Leh Ladakh trip & suggested Ladakh itinerary 15 days

Here are several things you need to know before traveling to Ladakh. They are certainly helpful for adventurers, nature lovers and Himalayan tour participants like you. Just take a quick look at these and plan your trip, you will surely enjoy yourself in Ladakh.

Ladakh’s Climate (# ladakh travel tips)

One of the important Leh Ladakh travel tips that you need to keep in mind is that the weather is severe in this part of India. So, you must bring sweaters and warm coats whenever you visit Ladakh.

Those who can’t stand the cold even with warm clothes should avoid a Ladakh journey in winter, from November to March, when it is extremely cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing point. The average temperatures range from -20°C to 10°C (-4°F to 50°F). Most of Ladakh, including popular tourist destinations like Pangong Tso and Nubra Valley, remains inaccessible due to heavy snowfall, and many guesthouses and hotels are closed.

The best time to visit this region is in summer, from April to June, when the weather is pleasant and the temperatures are relatively moderate. The average daytime temperature is from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). It is an ideal time for outdoor activities like trekking through mountains and valleys, rafting, and enjoying the stunning landscapes.

Acute Mountain Sickness (# ladakh travel tips)

It’s important to note that Ladakh is located at a high altitude and a Ladakh trip will surely take you to mountains of 3,000m to 7,000m (10,000 ft to 23,000 ft) above sea level. Therefore, you must be aware of Acute Mountain Sickness (ASM), usually occurring at altitudes above 2,500m (8,000 ft).

AMS is a common condition caused by the reduced oxygen levels and lower air pressure that can occur when you ascend to high altitudes too quickly without giving your body enough time to acclimatize. AMS can cause shortness of breath, severe headaches, vomiting, and loss of appetite among others.

Being aware of AMS is one of the important and must-know things for Ladakh travel. You should consult your doctor and carry AMS drugs with you. Without AMS drugs, suffering AMS may lead to bubbles forming in the lungs. This is a medical emergency that, if left untreated, can result in coma or death. You should also bring a personal thermometer, sphygmomanometer and first aid kit. You should check your temperature whenever you feel dizzy in high altitude areas in Ladakh.

Car rental in Ladakh (# ladakh tips)

How to explore Ladakh when you’re not ready to go mountain biking or hiking? Consider a Ladakh road safari! A Ladakh road safari or road trip offers a unique and adventurous way to experience the beauty and cultural richness of the region. This option is also a much more cost-effective way to explore the world’s highest road in Ladakh.

However, it is important to note that Ladakh’s high-altitude environment and challenging road conditions require careful planning and preparation for a road trip. You should make sure you are physically fit, acclimatize properly to the altitude, carry essential supplies, and have a reliable and well-maintained car.

Many tour operators and travel agencies in Leh offer organized Ladakh road safari packages, including vehicle rentals and experienced drivers. They allow up to 6 people per drive. These agencies can be found in the main bazaar area of Leh town. Some well-known car rental agencies here include Avis, Himalayan Wheels, and Discover Ladakh Adventure Tours & Travel.

You can also drive yourself or hire a driver if you are not capable of driving on high mountain roads. You should plan ahead, book your car rental in advance, and check the availability of vehicles during your travel dates, especially during the peak tourist season (April to September), as availability may be limited. You can use online car rental platforms. Websites or apps such as Zoomcar, Revv, and Savaari provide options for renting self-drive cars in various locations in Ladakh.

Accommodation for tourists in Ladakh  (# ladakh tips)

Ladakh offers tourists several accommodation options such as hotels, guesthouses, homestays, campsites and tents, but the number of these facilities is limited.  You should know that it’s hard to find a luxury place to stay somewhere not in Leh, so just expect standard ones with HVAC, TV and hot shower.

The availability of accommodation options may vary depending on the season and the specific region of Ladakh you plan to visit. During the peak tourist season (April to September), you should book your accommodation in advance, especially if you have specific preferences or requirements. If you wish to see the snowy beauty of the Himalayas in winter, be aware that nighttime temperatures drop below zero. Without a place to stay, you’ll have a hard time staying in your car or by a campfire with warm clothes.

While planning your stay in Ladakh, consider factors such as location, accessibility, services offered, and the proximity to major attractions or activities you wish to explore. Researching and reading reviews from reliable sources can help you make informed decisions and find the accommodation that suits your needs and enhances your Ladakh experience.

What to wear for a Ladakh trip?

If you reach this tip, you know that temperature in Ladakh ranges from -20°C to 25°C and it changes significantly between daytime and nighttime. Therefore, Ladakh travel clothing tips tell you that there is no other choice but warm clothes.

The following clothing and footwear are recommended for your adventure in Ladakh:

• A combination of lightweight and warm layers to adjust to the changing temperatures such as t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, sweaters or fleeces, and a warm jacket or down coat for colder evenings.
• Thermal base layers to provide extra warmth, especially during early mornings and higher altitudes.
• A waterproof and windproof jacket or shell to protect against rain, wind, and sudden weather changes.
• Comfortable pants, jeans and shorts for daily wear.
• A hat or cap to shield you from the sun and cold winds, and gloves for colder temperatures.
• A scarf or neck gaiter to provide additional warmth and protection for your neck and face.
• Comfortable, waterproof, and sturdy footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain and long hikes.
• A sufficient number of socks, including woolen or thermal socks for colder days.

If your warm clothes do not provide enough protection from the cold, it is better to buy more of them in Leh. Those products are handmade with natural fur. It feels well-deserved as soon as you put them on and they are also affordable.

What to put in your luggage for a trip to Ladakh

Apart from the above clothing and footwear, the following items are recommended to be in your luggage:

• A good pair of sunglasses with UV protection to protect your eyes from the strong sunlight at high altitudes;
• A high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from the intense sun at higher altitudes and a lip balm with SPF to prevent chapped lips;
• A daypack or backpack to store your essentials during excursions or hikes;
• A reusable water bottle with insulation to stay hydrated to keep your water cool.
• Any necessary medications, including those for AMS, a personal hygiene kit along with a basic first aid kit for minor injuries or illnesses;
• A power bank to charge your electronic devices due to limited access to electricity in some areas, and adapters for charging your devices if needed;
• A good camera to capture the beauty of the Himalayas;
• GPS devices if possible;
• Emergency lights, torches and portable gas stoves for your nighttime travel to get light and drink hot water.

What is the currency in Ladakh?

The currency used in Ladakh is the Indian Rupee (INR), as Ladakh is a part of the Indian Territory. 1 INR = 0.012 USD.

The rule of thumb is to carry INR in cash when traveling to Ladakh. While a few establishments in major towns like Leh may accept credit cards or digital payments, cash is widely used, especially in remote areas with no internet connection and for small transactions. You should exchange currency before arriving in Ladakh or in major cities like Delhi or Srinagar, as currency exchange facilities are limited in Ladakh.

Leh, the main town of Ladakh, has only a few ATMs where you can withdraw cash using your debit or credit card. However, it’s important to note that ATMs can sometimes run out of cash or experience technical issues. So, you should carry sufficient cash with you and withdraw money when you have the opportunity to do so.

SIM cards and telecommunication networks in Ladakh

On your Ladakh adventure, you will certainly need a 4G travel SIM card to help you check in anytime anywhere possible, stay in touch with your loved ones or find your way. Where to buy a 4G travel SIM card? The most common option is to buy it at the airport. All airports have service counters operated by local network providers to provide SIM cards to travelers.

There are 4 main network providers in Ladakh: Airtel, Jio, Vodafone Idea (VI), and BSNL. Each provider may have different network coverage and signal strength in different areas. You should inquire about the network coverage of various providers and choose one that offers better connectivity based on your travel plans.

You should keep in mind that the network coverage in Ladakh can be limited, especially in remote areas and high-altitude regions. While major towns like Leh and Kargil have better network connectivity, you may experience weak or no signal in certain areas, particularly in mountainous and rural locations.

Notes on food in Ladakh (# things to know before going to ladakh)

Most of the food available in Ladakh is non-vegetarian. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets, it’s important to be prepared. At restaurants, you should communicate your needs to the restaurant staff. Ladakh may have limited options, but some restaurants are accommodating and can provide suitable alternatives.

You should eat or buy and pack food from wherever you pass with a store open because you won’t be able to find food vendors on your way to Ladakh. When you’re looking for a place to stay, you should see if they also serve food. Otherwise, you will have to go a long way to find food only.

You should also bring some canned food for use. When traveling to remote areas or during long journeys, it can be helpful to carry snacks like energy bars, nuts, or dried fruits to keep you fueled between meals.

What about local cuisine? It is advisable to explore the local Ladakhi cuisine to experience the unique flavors of the region. Try traditional dishes like thukpa, momos, skyu, and chutagi. These dishes are widely available in local restaurants and eateries. Don’t miss out on trying butter tea (gur-gur chai), a traditional Ladakhi beverage. It has a distinct taste and is an integral part of Ladakh’s culinary culture.

How to get to Ladakh? (# what you need to know before going to ladakh)

You can get to Ladakh by road or by air from major cities in India, but most tourists prefer travelling by air. The Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh is the only airport serving Ladakh. It has regular flights connecting Leh to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Srinagar. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use pre-arranged transportation to reach your destination in Ladakh.

Ladakh is accessible by road from Srinagar City or Manali City of India. From Srinagar, the Srinagar-Leh Highway (National Highway 1D) is a popular route to reach Ladakh. It is open from around May to November, depending on weather conditions. The journey takes approximately 2 days with an overnight stop in Kargil.

From Manali, the Manali-Leh Highway (National Highway 3) is another scenic route to reach Ladakh. It is open from around June to September. The journey takes around 2 days, including an overnight stop in Keylong or Sarchu.

Transportation in Ladakh (what you need to know before traveling to ladakh)

Within Ladakh, there are several transportation options for you. Taxis, shared taxis or shared jeeps are common modes of transport here for short trips or longer journeys to other destinations in Ladakh. You should negotiate fares or use pre-paid taxi services available at the Leh Taxi Stand.

Another option is buses. However, bus service is limited in Ladakh, mainly operating between Leh and nearby towns. These buses are a budget-friendly option but may have limited schedules and can be crowded.

If you prefer to explore Ladakh at your own pace, renting a private car or a motorbike is an option for you. However, it’s important to note that driving in Ladakh can be challenging due to the mountainous terrain, narrow roads, and high altitudes. It is better to have prior experience in driving in such conditions.

If you prefer a hassle-free experience, you can opt for private tour operators who provide transportation services along with organized tours and itineraries. These operators can arrange vehicles, drivers, and guides based on your preferences and requirements.

If you want a unique and memorable way to explore the region’s desert landscapes, particularly in the Nubra Valley, take a camel safari – a ride on the back of a Bactrian camel led by experienced handlers or guides who are familiar with the region.

Camel safaris in Ladakh often include visits to small villages and monasteries along the way, providing opportunities to interact with the local people and learn about their way of life. You can experience Ladakhi hospitality, taste local cuisine, and gain insights into the region’s rich culture and traditions.

Some famous monasteries in Ladakh

Monasteries, also known as gompas, hold great significance in Ladakh’s cultural and spiritual landscape. They are an integral part of the region’s Buddhist heritage and offer a unique experience for visitors.

Monasteries are places of worship, meditation, and learning, where monks and nuns reside and practice their faith. Visiting the monasteries in Ladakh provides a window into the region’s rich cultural heritage. You can witness Buddhist rituals, observe monks engaged in prayer and chanting, and gain insights into the philosophy and teachings of Tibetan Buddhism.

Ladakh’s monasteries are also renowned for their stunning architecture and picturesque locations. Perched high on hilltops, nestled in the valleys, or built along mountain slopes, these monasteries exhibit a blend of Tibetan, Indian, and Central Asian architectural styles. Intricate murals, colorful frescoes, and ornate sculptures adorn the monastery walls, showcasing the artistic richness of the region.

Here are some of the most popular monasteries in the region.

Thiksey Monastery, located on top of a hill close to Leh, is one of the most prominent and largest monasteries in Ladakh. It is known for its resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Tibet, and its grand Maitreya (Future Buddha) statue, which stands at a height of around 49 feet.

Hemis Monastery, situated in the Hemis village, is one of the wealthiest and most famous monasteries in Ladakh. It is renowned for its annual Hemis Festival, during which the monastery comes alive with vibrant mask dances and cultural performances.

Alchi Monastery, located in the Alchi village, stands out for its unique artistic style. It houses some of the oldest and finest examples of Kashmiri-influenced Buddhist art in the form of murals, sculptures, and wood carvings.

Lamayuru Monastery, also known as the “Moonland of Ladakh,” is one of the oldest monasteries in the region. It is perched on a hill and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding lunar-like landscape. Lamayuru is also associated with the annual Yuru Kabgyat Festival, featuring colorful mask dances.

Other monasteries popular among tourists are Phuktal, Karsha, Diskit, Likir, Namgyal Tsemo, Basgo, etc.

A journey to Ladakh is like the road to paradise in the Himalayas and we hope those Ladakh travel tips are useful for you as you plan your own Ladakh tour, then go for it to gain an unforgettable experience in your life.

Quick questions about Ladakh

Is ladakh safe for tourists.

Ladakh’s mountainous terrain and desert-like characteristics make it a captivating destination for travelers seeking unique landscapes and a sense of adventure. It is generally considered safe for tourists.

How high is Ladakh?

Ladakh is situated in the Trans-Himalayan region and is characterized by its high altitude, rugged mountains, and sparse vegetation. Its elevation ranges from 3,000m to 6,000m (9,800 ft to 20,000 ft) above sea level.

Does Ladakh have the highest roads in the world?

Well, Ladakh has claimed that it is home to some of the highest mountain passes (motorable) in the world such as Khardung La, Chang La and Tanglang La. The highest altitude is 19,300 ft above mean sea level.

When can I go to Ladakh to see the snow?

To see snow in Ladakh, it is best to plan your visit during the winter months, from November to March, when snowfall is more frequent and the region is covered in snow.

However, it’s important to note that the winter season in Ladakh is extremely cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing, especially in higher-altitude areas.  Many tourist facilities and accommodations in Ladakh may be closed or operate on a limited basis during the winter season.

Does the Indus River flow through Ladakh?

Yes, the Indus River flows through Ladakh. The Indus is one of the major rivers in the Indian subcontinent, and it originates in the Tibetan Plateau in China. It enters the Indian Territory in the region of Ladakh and flows through the Leh district, which is a part of the Union Territory of Ladakh.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Leh-Ladakh-Zanskar you can refer to

• 10D9N Discover Ladakh, India from Singapore [All-Inclusive]
• 7D6N Ladakh Private Tour
• 6D5N Ladakh Private Tour
• 9D8N Chadar Frozen River Trekking Experience
• 11D10N Stok Kangri Summit Trek from Leh

Read more Ladakh blog — How to plan Leh Ladakh trip & suggested Ladakh itinerary 15 days.

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Aug 22, 2022

10 reasons to visit Ladakh in September

Comfortable shoulder month.

September is the time when you are not yet facing the bone chilling cold winds of Ladakh but there’s that definite pleasant chill in the air.

Negligible foot traffic

This is when the peak tourist season ends but the cafes, restaurants and hotels in Ladakh are still operational.

Explore at leisure

With no hurry to reach a destination before it gets crowded, you have all the time on your hands to explore the place.

Perfect weather for the outdoors

September sky is the perfect time to stay outdoors. Not a cloud in sight, just a cool sunny day in the mountains.

Best flight deals

Off-season means big discounts on airfares! Make the best use of this time.

Cheaper car rentals

With zero to very few tourists around, the cab fares are much cheaper now. You will be able to comfortably hire a cab to take you around town.

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No traffic jams.

If you visit Ladakh in the peak tourist season, you will find the roads are choked due to the high number of vehicles. No such problems in September.

Ladakh Harvest Festival

The Ladakh Harvest Festival is celebrated every year from September 1-15. It’s a colourful cultural festival worth travelling for.

Best time to stargaze

September is a good time to do stargazing in Ladakh because you will have clear sky and the night’s cold will not be unbearable.

Have fun camping

With beautiful peace and quiet, you can have a lovely time camping in peace with your friends and loved ones.

Thanks For Reading!

Next: Indian holiday destinations perfect for September!